Packaged body adhering absorbent article

ABSTRACT

A packaged feminine care absorbent article has an absorbent article with an absorbent structure and a shell. The absorbent structure is configured for disposition adjacent a female wearer&#39;s vaginal region. The shell is configured for supporting the absorbent structure at the vaginal region. The shell has a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface. The body-facing surface has an adhesive thereon for adhering the shell directly to the wearer. The absorbent structure is attached directly to the garment-facing surface. The absorbent article is configurable between a packaged configuration and a use configuration. The absorbent structure is folded longitudinally about at least one transverse fold line and transversely about at least one longitudinal fold line in the packaged configuration. A portion of the shell overlies a portion of the absorbent structure in the packaged configuration.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/364,388 filed Feb. 2, 2009, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/182,956 filed Jul. 30, 2008, which is acontinuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/890,093 filed Aug. 3, 2007, and U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/005,793 filed Dec. 28, 2007. Each of these applications is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates generally to an absorbent article forabsorbing bodily fluids.

Absorbent personal care articles intended to absorb discharged bodilyfluids are well known in the art. Such absorbent articles generallycomprise a fibrous mass or other absorbent core which can absorb andhold body fluids. Similarly, it is well known that feminine carearticles have been employed to absorb and hold liquids, such as urineand/or menses. A typical structure of an absorbent article includes afluid impermeable back sheet, a fluid permeable top sheet and anabsorbent core positioned between the back sheet and the top sheet.Prior absorbent articles have also included various other features toimprove fluid handling, such as intake layers, distribution layers,retention layers and the like. In these absorbent personal carearticles, the top sheet is the body-facing side of the absorbent articleand the back sheet is the garment-facing side of the absorbent article.

Generally, the absorbent articles are held in place during use by usingthe wearer's waist and elastic materials in the waist portion of theabsorbent product in place during use, in the case of pant-likegarments, such as diapers and training pants, or by attaching theabsorbent article to the underwear or undergarment of a wearer, in thecase of pads or liners. Current methods of attaching the absorbentarticle to the underwear or undergarment of a wearer include placing anadhesive on the garment-facing side of the back sheet, having optionalflaps (wings) that extend from the longitudinal sides of the absorbentarticle which wrap around the crotch portion of the underwear orundergarment of the wearer and a combination of the adhesive and theflaps.

It has also been suggested to use an adhesive to adhere the absorbentarticle to the skin of the wearer. However, the design of theseabsorbent articles was essentially the same as the absorbent articleswhich were attached to the underwear or undergarment of the wearer. Thatis, the adhesive is applied to the body-facing surface of the top sheet.Alternatively, in another design, a portion of the back sheet waswrapped around and over the top sheet. This portion of the back sheetwhich is wrapped around and over the top sheet becomes a body facingsurface. An adhesive is applied to the portion of the back sheet whichis wrapped over the top sheet. While these designs were effective foradhering the absorbent article to the skin of a wearer, these absorbentarticles were not comfortable for wearers to wear, since the shape andsize of the absorbent articles were the same as those absorbent articleswhich were attached to the undergarment or underwear of the wearer.

Similarly, absorbent articles that are attached to the underwear orundergarment of a wearer can also be uncomfortable for the wearer. Thisis because during normal movement of the body, portions of the bodyplace opposed forces on the undergarment, which may cause theundergarment to be bunched or twisted. When this occurs, any absorbentarticle attached to the underwear or undergarment may also becomebunched or twisted, causing discomfort to the wearer of the absorbentarticle. For example, the presence and absence of pressure from theabsorbent article on the inner thighs as the wearer moves, which isoften described by wearers as feeling “like a diaper”, is one sourcewhich compromises comfort for wearers of conventional absorbentarticles, including liners, ultra-thin absorbent pads and maxi pads. Inaddition, the movement of the wearer or deformation of the underwearwhile being worn may also cause the absorbent article to have a poor fitagainst the body of the wearer, which could result in leaks from theabsorbent article.

Another disadvantage of conventional absorbent articles is that thesilhouette or outline of the absorbent article may be visible to othersthrough the clothing of the wearer. Even currently available ultra-thinabsorbent articles may be visible through tight fitting outer clothingof a wearer. Therefore, conventional absorbent personal care articles donot always provide discretion for wearers.

There is a need in the art to provide wearers of absorbent articles witha discrete absorbent product, which is as easy to use as a conventionalpad and is comfortable to wear and will effectively prevent or reducepremature leakage from the absorbent article.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a packaged feminine care absorbent article generallycomprises an absorbent article comprising an absorbent structure and ashell. The absorbent structure is configured for disposition adjacent afemale wearer's vaginal region to absorb bodily fluids discharged by thewearer. The shell is configured for supporting the absorbent structureat the vaginal region. The shell has a body-facing surface and agarment-facing surface. The body-facing surface has an adhesive thereonfor adhering the shell directly to the wearer. The absorbent article isconfigurable between a packaged configuration and a use configuration. Awrapper encloses the absorbent article in the packaged configuration.The wrapper comprises a releasable peel sheet for covering at least aportion of the adhesive on the body-facing surface of the shell in thepackaged configuration of the absorbent article.

In another aspect, a packaged feminine care absorbent article generallycomprises an absorbent article comprising an absorbent structure and ashell. The absorbent structure is configured for disposition adjacent afemale wearer's vaginal region to absorb bodily fluids discharged by thewearer. The shell is configured for supporting the absorbent structureat the vaginal region. The shell has a body-facing surface and agarment-facing surface. The body-facing surface has an adhesive thereonfor adhering the shell directly to the wearer. The absorbent article isconfigurable between a packaged configuration and a use configuration.The absorbent article is folded longitudinally about at least onetransverse fold line and transversely about at least one longitudinalfold line in the packaged configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a top view of an embodiment of an absorbent article of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 shows a top view of an embodiment of an absorbent article of thepresent invention.

FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of the absorbent article shown in theembodiment of absorbent article of the present invention shown in FIG.1.

FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of the absorbent article shown in theembodiment of absorbent article of the present invention shown in FIG.2.

FIG. 5 shows a side cut-away view of an embodiment of an absorbentarticle of the present invention shown in FIG. 2 along line 5-5.

FIG. 6 shows a side cut-away view of an embodiment of an absorbentarticle of the present invention shown in FIG. 2 along line 5-5 having atwo-layer shell.

FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an absorbentarticle of the present invention having a hinged absorbent structure.

FIGS. 8 and 9 each show an absorbent article of the present inventionhaving a release sheet applied thereto.

FIG. 10 shows a top view of another absorbent article of the presentinvention having a design for attachment to specific area of the body.

FIG. 11 shows a cross-section view of FIG. 10 along lines 11-11.

FIGS. 12 and 13 show embodiments of the present invention with placementguides.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of an absorbentarticle of the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows an exploded perspective of the absorbent article.

FIG. 16 shows a top view of the absorbent article.

FIG. 17 shows a bottom view of the absorbent article.

FIG. 18 shows a side view of the absorbent article.

FIG. 19 shows a side cut-away view of the absorbent article taken alongline 19-19 of FIG. 16.

FIG. 20 shows a top view of a shell of the absorbent article.

FIG. 21 shows a top view of an absorbent structure of the absorbentarticle.

FIGS. 22 and 23 each show a top view of other embodiments of anabsorbent article of the present invention.

FIGS. 24 and 25 show side cross-sectional views of still otherembodiments of absorbent articles of the present invention.

FIG. 26 shows a side view of another embodiment of an absorbent articleof the present invention wherein the shell has a concave shape.

FIG. 27 shows a cross-sectional side view of an absorbent article of thepresent invention with the absorbent core recessed into the shell.

FIGS. 28-30 each show a top view of an embodiment of an absorbentarticle of the present invention having a different shell shape.

FIG. 31 shows a bottom view of an embodiment of an absorbent article ofthe present invention where only a portion of the absorbent structure ispositioned over shell.

FIG. 32 shows a top view of an embodiment of an absorbent article of thepresent invention where only a portion of the absorbent structure ispositioned over shell.

FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view taken along sectional line 33-33 ofFIG. 32.

FIG. 34 shows a top view of an embodiment of an absorbent article of thepresent invention wherein the body adhesive is applied in an openpattern.

FIGS. 35-37 each show an absorbent article of the present inventionhaving a release sheet applied thereto.

FIG. 38 shows a top view of another absorbent article of the presentinvention having a design for attachment to specific area of the body.

FIG. 39 shows a cross-section view taken along sectional line 39-39 ofFIG. 38.

FIGS. 40 and 41 show embodiments of the present invention with placementguides.

FIG. 42 shows a side view of the absorbent article of FIG. 14 rolledinto a packaged configuration.

FIG. 43 shows an end view of the absorbent article in its packagedconfiguration.

FIG. 44 shows a cross-section view taken along sectional line 44-44 ofFIG. 42.

FIG. 45 shows a front view of a wrapper enclosing the absorbent articlein its packaged configuration.

FIG. 46 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article of FIG. 14being rolled to a packaged configuration about a tube.

FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article rolled aboutthe tube to its packaged configuration.

FIG. 48 shows a perspective view similar to FIG. 47 but shows a tamponand applicator assembly that is adapted for insertion into an interiorchamber of the tube.

FIG. 49 shows a perspective view similar to FIG. 48 but with the tamponand applicator assembly disposed with the interior chamber of the tube.

FIG. 50 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article of FIG. 14rolled to a packaged configuration about a tampon and applicatorassembly.

FIG. 51 shows a front view of the absorbent article of FIG. 14 folded toa packaged configuration.

FIG. 52 shows a side view of the absorbent article folded to itspackaged configuration.

FIG. 53 shows a cross-section view taken along sectional line 53-53 ofFIG. 51.

FIG. 54 shows a front view of a wrapper enclosing the absorbent articlein its packaged configuration.

FIG. 55 shows a side view of the absorbent article z-folded to itspackaged configuration.

FIG. 56 shows a side view of the absorbent article having a peel sheetand folded to its packaged configuration.

FIG. 57 shows a side view of a wrapper enclosing the absorbent articlewith the article being in a generally flat configuration.

FIGS. 58-60 show perspective views of the absorbent article beingunrolled from its packaged configuration to its use configuration.

FIG. 61 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of an absorbentarticle having a shell and an absorbent structure.

FIG. 62 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article of FIG. 61having a wrapper overlying a portion of the article.

FIG. 63 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article with a portionof the shell being folded to overlie a portion of the absorbent article.

FIG. 64 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article with thearticle being folded again to capture a portion of the wrapper.

FIG. 65 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article being rolledup after being folded several times.

FIG. 66 shows a perspective view of the wrapper enclosing the absorbentarticle.

FIG. 67 shows a side view of FIG. 66 wherein the absorbent article isenclosed by the wrapper.

FIG. 68 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article of FIG. 61having a wrapper overlying a portion of the article.

FIG. 69 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article in the processof being accordion folded about a plurality of transverse fold lines.

FIG. 70 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article accordionfolded about a plurality of transverse fold line and overlying thewrapper.

FIG. 71 shows a perspective view of the wrapper enclosing the absorbentarticle.

FIG. 72 shows a side view of FIG. 71 wherein the absorbent article isenclosed by the wrapper.

FIG. 73 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article of FIG. 61having a wrapper overlying a portion of the article.

FIG. 74 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article with a portionof the shell being folded to overlie a portion of the absorbent article.

FIG. 75 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article with thearticle being folded for a second time.

FIG. 76 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article with thearticle being folded yet again to capture a portion of the wrapper

FIG. 77 shows a perspective view of the wrapper enclosing the absorbentarticle.

FIG. 78 shows a side view of FIG. 77 wherein the absorbent article isenclosed by the wrapper.

FIG. 79 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article of FIG. 61having a wrapper overlying a portion of the article.

FIG. 80 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article with a portionof the shell being folded to underlie a portion of the absorbentarticle.

FIG. 81 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article overlying awrapper with a portion of the shell being folded under a portion of theabsorbent article.

FIG. 82 shows a perspective view of the wrapper being folded about theabsorbent article.

FIG. 83 shows a perspective view of the wrapper enclosing the absorbentarticle.

FIG. 84 shows a side view of FIG. 83 wherein the absorbent article isenclosed by the wrapper.

FIG. 85 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article of FIG. 61having a wrapper overlying a portion of the article.

FIG. 86 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article with a portionof the shell being folded to overlie a portion of the absorbent article.

FIG. 87 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article with thearticle being folded again to capture a portion of the wrapper.

FIG. 88 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article being foldedabout a longitudinal fold line.

FIG. 89 shows a perspective view of the wrapper enclosing the absorbentarticle.

FIG. 90 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article of FIG. 61 ina use configuration.

FIG. 91 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article of FIG. 61having a wrapper overlying a portion of the article.

FIG. 92 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article with a portionof the shell being folded to overlie a portion of the absorbent article.

FIG. 93 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article in the processof being rolled up.

FIG. 94 shows a perspective view of the absorbent article being rolledup and overlying the wrapper.

FIG. 95 shows a perspective view of the wrapper enclosing the absorbentarticle.

FIG. 96 shows a side view of FIG. 95 wherein the absorbent article isenclosed by the wrapper.

FIG. 97 shows a top view of another embodiment of an absorbent articlehaving a shell and an absorbent structure.

FIG. 98 shows a bottom view of the absorbent article of FIG. 97.

FIG. 99 shows a top view of yet another embodiment of an absorbentarticle having a shell and an absorbent structure.

FIG. 100 shows a bottom view of the absorbent article of FIG. 99.

FIG. 101 shows a top view of still another embodiment of an absorbentarticle having a shell and an absorbent structure.

FIG. 102 shows a bottom view of the absorbent article of FIG. 101.

FIG. 103 shows a top view of still yet another embodiment of anabsorbent article having a shell and an absorbent structure.

FIG. 104 shows a top view of the absorbent article of FIG. 103 beingfolded into a packaged configuration.

DEFINITIONS

It should be noted that, when employed in the present disclosure, theterms “comprises”, “comprising” and other derivatives from the root term“comprise” are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presenceof any stated features, elements, integers, steps, or components, andare not intended to preclude the presence or addition of one or moreother features, elements, integers, steps, components, or groupsthereof.

It should be understood that the term “absorbent product” or “absorbentarticle”, as used herein, refers to any article used to control bodilyfluids that are configured to absorb and retain bodily exudates,including urine, blood, menses, and other bodily discharges, such assweat and vaginal secretions resulting from sexual activity and thelike. In addition, the term is intended to include odor absorbingarticles.

As used herein, the term “polymer” generally includes, but is notlimited to, homopolymers, copolymers, such as, block, graft, random andalternating copolymers, terpolymers, etc., and blends and modificationsthereof. Furthermore, unless otherwise specifically limited, the term“polymer” shall include all possible geometrical configurations of thematerial. These configurations include, but are not limited to,isotactic, syndiotactic and random symmetries.

As used herein, “body-facing surface” means that surface of theabsorbent article which is intended to be disposed toward or placedadjacent to the body of the wearer during ordinary use. The“garment-facing surface” is on the opposite side of the absorbentarticle from the body-facing surface. The garment-facing surface is anoutward surface of the absorbent article and is intended to be disposedto face away from the wearer's body during ordinary use. Thegarment-facing surface is generally arranged to face toward or placedadjacent to the wearer's undergarments when the absorbent article isworn.

As used herein, the term “connected” is intended to mean directlyconnected and indirectly connected. By directly connected, it isintended that the connected elements are in contact with one another oraffixed to one another. By indirectly connected, it is intended that oneor more intervening or intermediate elements are between the twoelements which are secured or “connected” together. The interveningelements may be affixed.

As used herein, the term “absorbent structure” is intended to mean aconfiguration of an absorbent material which allows bodily fluids to beabsorbed by the absorbent material.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The absorbent product of the present invention provides an absorbentarticle which is designed to adhere to the body of a wearer in the areaof the body of the wearer which may need bodily fluids absorbed. In oneparticular use of the absorbent article, the absorbent article isattached to the body of a female wearer to or around the vulva region ofthe body. By “to or around the vulva region”, it is meant adjacentregions of the body of a female including the pubic region and theperinea region. When applied to or around the vulva region of the femalebody, the absorbent article may be used as a panty-liner, sanitarynapkin or incontinence article. In addition, the absorbent article maybe worn as an underwear substitute since the absorbent article of thepresent invention does not need underwear to hold the absorbent articlein place. As an underwear substitute, the absorbent article providesprotection to the vulva area by creating a barrier between the outerclothing and the vulva of a wearer. When worn as an underwearsubstitute, the absorbent article serves to protect the outer clothingof the wearer from bodily discharges from the vulva region of thewearer's body. In addition, when the absorbent article is worn as anunderwear substitute, the absorbent article also serves to protect thesensitive skin and body features of the vulva region from roughness ofthe outer clothing, thereby preventing or alleviating irritation to thesensitive skin and body features of the vulva region.

To gain a better understanding of the present invention, attention isdirected to the Figures of the present specification. As is shown ineach of the Figures, in particular FIGS. 1 and 2, the absorbent article100 has a longitudinal direction 1 and a lateral direction 2. Onecomponent of the absorbent article 100 is a shell 114. This shell 114has a first side 115, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and a second side 117,as is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The shell 114 serves to provide theoverall contour or silhouette of the absorbent article of the presentinvention. In addition, the shell 114 also provides a surface forattachment or adhesion of the absorbent article 100 to the body of awearer.

The first side 115 of the shell 114 is the body facing side of theabsorbent article 100 and the second side 117 of the shell 114 is thegarment facing side of the absorbent article. The shell 114 of theabsorbent article 100 has a first region 101. This first region 101 hasa pair of lateral side regions 102, 102′ extending from the firstregion. This pair of lateral side regions each has a proximate end 103,103′ adjacent the first region 101 and a distal end 104, 104′. The pairof lateral side regions 102, 102′ and the first region 101 togetherdefine an opening 105 in the shell 114. This opening 105 may be opennear the distal ends 104, 104′ of the lateral side regions 102, 102′, asis shown in FIG. 1 or, as shown in FIG. 2, the lateral side regions 102,102′ may be joined at the distal end 104, 104′ to form a second region107. The portions of the lateral side regions 102, 102′ and the firstregion 101 adjacent the opening 105 form a circumference or edge 106around the opening 105. This circumference or edge 106 typically hasthickness in the z-direction 3 which is about equal to the thickness ofthe shell. However, the thickness of the edge may be increased ordecreased to improve comfort for a wearer or performance of theabsorbent article.

The absorbent article 100 further has an absorbent structure 121attached to the second side 117 of the shell 114, as is shown in FIGS.1-6. At least a portion of the absorbent structure 121 is positioned inthe absorbent article such that a majority of the opening 105 in theshell has the absorbent structure 121 positioned therein, as can be seenin FIGS. 1 and 2. In one particular embodiment, the entire area of theopening 105 has the absorbent structure 121 positioned therein.Generally to hold the absorbent structure in place, a portion of theabsorbent structure 121 is attached to the second side 117 of the shell114. Suitable methods of attaching the absorbent structure 121 to thesecond side 117 of the shell 114 includes adhesives, mechanicallybonding the absorbent structure 121 to the second side 117 using bondingmeans such as ultrasonic bonding, heat and pressure bonding and thelike, which are discussed in more detail below.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the opening 105 in the shellmay be a hole, which is devoid of any material, or and in anotherembodiment of the present invention the opening 105 may be a regionwhich is permeable to body fluids. If the opening is a region which ispermeable, the opening may have a material such as hydrogel or similarmaterial that will allow body fluids to flow through the material.

In one embodiment, the first side 115 of the shell 114 is adapted to bethe body contacting side of the absorbent article. The first region 101,the lateral sides regions 102, 102′ and the second region 107, whenpresent, on the first side 115 of the shell 114 are designed or adaptedto contact, attach or adhere to the wearer's skin. In one particularembodiment, the first region 101 of the shell 114 is designed or adaptedto contact a female wearer's skin surrounding the vulva region of thefemale torso when the absorbent article 100 is applied to the wearer. By“designed or adapted to contact a female wearer's skin surrounding thevulva region of the female torso”, it is meant that the size and shapeof the shell 114, including the first region and the lateral sideregions and second region, if present, is such that the shell 114 fitsin the vulva region and possibly the surrounding pubic region andperinea regions of the female torso. Generally, the shell 114 is sizedand shaped such that the extent of the first side 115 of the shell 114only contacts and attaches or adheres to the skin surrounding andproximate to the vulva area and possibly the pubic and perinea regionsof the wearer. In addition to contacting the skin in the vulva, pubicand perinea regions of the wearer, the first side 115 of the shell 114may also contact and attach or adhere to any hair in the vulva area ofthe wearer which may be present. The first side 115 of the shell 114 iswhat holds the absorbent article in place on the body of a wearer.

To gain a better understanding of the vulva region and surroundingregions of the female body, a general description of the anatomicalstructures can be found in The Illustrated Running Press Edition of theAmerican Classic Gray's Anatomy (1974) by Henry Gray and Structure andFunction in Man (1974) by Stanley W. Jacob, M.D., F.A.C.S. and relevantportions are included herein by reference. The general form can be foundin Anatomy for an Artist: Elements of Form by Eliot Goldfinger andrelevant portions are included herein by reference. The generaldescription of the pubic hair covering these regions can be found inWoman's Body: A Manual for Life and relevant portions are includedherein by reference.

The female anatomical structures to be described include the leg and thelower torso. The external anatomical structures of the lower torsoinclude gluteal region and perineum region. The gluteal region includesthe buttocks and the anus. The anatomical structure involved on the legis the medial surface of the upper thigh.

The gluteal region includes generally the buttocks and anus and istypically bound in front by the line of the buttocks and the glutealfolds, in the back by the sacral triangle and the sides by linesextending through the greater trochanters. The shape of the glutealregion is roughly hemi-spherical and convex, and is determined by aseries of muscles including the gluteus maximus and a series of fat padsincluding the posterior gluteal fat pad. The line of the buttocksseparates the gluteal region and the perineum region.

The upper thigh region includes typically the right and left thigh andis typically bound on top by the thigh lines and the sides by the frontand back of the leg. The thigh lines are two lines that are on eitherside of the labia and each of the lines runs along the line of theinguinal ligament to the gluteal folds and marks where the upper thighmeets the lower torso. The shape of the region is roughly a portion of atapered cylinder and convex, and is shaped by a series of muscle groupsincluding the gracilis, pectineus, adductor longus, adductor brevis, andadductor magnus and series of fat pads including the inner thigh fatpad.

The perineum region, which extends from the inferior outlet of thepelvis to the bony structure of the coccyx, is comprised of twodivisions, the urogenital triangle and the anal division or obstetricalperineum. The region includes the external organs of reproduction; themons pubis, labia majora and minora, clitoris, meatus urinarius and theopening to the vagina. The region is generally bound in front by thelower abdominal line, on the sides the thigh lines, and in the back theline of the buttocks. The abdominal line is a line that passes acrossthe top of the pubis. The lines of the buttocks are lines that connectthe thigh lines to the gluteal cleft. For convenience in describing theform and created spaces in the perineum region, this region will besubdivided into three regions an anterior region including the monspubis, a central region including the labia majora and minora, andposterior region. The anterior region is bound in front by the lowerabdominal line, in back by anterior commissure, and on the sides by lineof the labia. The central region is bound in front by the anteriorcommissure, in the back by the posterior commissure, and on the side bythe line of the labia. The posterior region is bound in front by theline of the labia, in the back by the lines of the buttocks, and on thesides the thigh line.

The vulva region includes the female external genitalia and generallyincludes the anterior and central regions of the perineum. The monspubis [or veneris] is generally a rounded eminence in front of thesymphysis pubis, formed by a collection of fatty tissue including thepubic fat pad beneath the integument and is generally covered with pubichair. The labia majora are generally two prominent longitudinalcutaneous folds extending downward from the mons veneris to the anteriorboundary of the perineum, and generally enclosing the commonurinary-sexual opening. The space between the two folds is the labialcleft. Each labium has generally two surfaces, an outer, which ispigmented and covered generally with strong, crisp pubic hairs, and aninner within the labia cleft, which is smooth and is beset with largesebaceous follicles and is continuous with the genito-urinary mucoustract; between the two there is considerable quantity of areolar tissue,fat including the labia fat pad, and tissue besides vessels, meeting theanterior commissure. Posteriorly they are typically not joined, butgenerally appear to become lost in the neighboring integument,terminating close to, and nearly parallel with each other. Together withthe connecting skin between them, they form the posterior commissure orposterior boundary of the vulval orifice. The interval between theposterior commissure and the anus constitutes the perineum region. Thefourchette is the anterior edge of the perineum, and between it and thehymen is a depression, the fossa navicularis. The line of the labiaseparates the labia and the perineum region.

The labia minora are two small cutaneous folds, situated generallywithin the labia majora, and extending from the clitoris obliquelydownward, outward, and backward on each side of the orifice of thevagina.

The form of the perineum, gluteal, and upper thigh regions combine toform a very intricate skin topography and spaces. The roughlytwo-hemispherical-like forms of the buttocks, the roughlytapered-cylinder-like form of the upper thigh, split-teardrop-like formof the vulvar region create intricate generally convex topography withintersections to form a series of recesses. The generally convextopography of the buttocks, the vulvar region, and upper thigh join tocreate spaces including two inner thigh grooves along two thigh lines, adepression in the posterior perineum region and a cleft extendingthrough the labia and gluteal clefts. The grooves, depression, and cleftare like interconnected recesses in the topography. The central regiongeneral has lateral sides separated by a distal surface created by thelabial cleft and includes the labial cleft.

Pubic hair generally cover some of these regions and fill in a portionof these recesses especially the labial cleft and the portion of thegroove of the thigh parallel to the labial cleft to create a hairsurface topography. The hair topography is the surface topography of animaginary distal surface created by the hair. The depression of theperineum, thigh groove parallel to the gluteal cleft, and the glutealcleft generally has little or no pubic hair. The skin topographycombines with the hair topography to create an overall body topography.

This intricate space created by the intricate body form in this regionof the body varies between women in both size and form, and varies withthe position and movement of the women. Some of these variations aresummarized in “Female genital appearance: ‘normality’ unfolds” byJillian Lloyd et. al., BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics andGynecology, May 2005, Vol. 112, pp. 643-646 and is included herein byreference.

As a woman ages, many changes occur to the vulva region. Skin begins tolose its elasticity and hangs more loosely from the body. In addition,the fat pads tend to be reduced, changing the topography of the vulvaregion. As a result, there is a need for a product which can be adaptedto these changing conditions.

When the absorbent article of the present invention is positioned foruse on a wearer, generally the first side 115 of the shell, includingthe first region 101, the lateral side regions 102, 102′ and the secondregion 107, if present, are positioned on the wearer outside the labiamajora of the wearer. This will allow any fluid coming from thevulvo-vaginal area of the body of a wearer to pass through the opening105 present in the shell 114, so that the fluid may flow into theabsorbent structure 121. The opening 105 could be an area which isdevoid of the shell material or any other material. Alternatively, theopening may be a permeable area, which is permeable to body fluids,containing a material which is permeable. Typically, the absorbentstructure 121 is the portion of the absorbent article which providesabsorbency to the absorbent article. In an alternative embodiment, thefirst side 115 of the shell 114 may also provide some absorbency to theabsorbent article. For example, the second first side 115 of the shell114 may contain an absorbent material integrated into the shell 114,such that the first side of the shell 114 has some degree of absorbency.The first side 115 of the shell 114 may have an absorbent materialcoated or impregnated into the shell material.

When the second region 107 is present, as shown in FIG. 2, the entireopening 105 is surrounded by the shell 114. When the second region 107is not present, as shown in FIG. 1, the opening 105 has an unbound end,meaning that the distal ends 104, 104′ of the lateral side regions 102,102′ are not connected. Each configuration of the absorbent articlesshown in FIGS. 1 and 2 have advantages. For example, the configurationshown in FIG. 1, where the second region 107 is not present in theabsorbent article 100, the absorbent article 100 may provide morecomfort to the wearer when being worn. That is, in use of the absorbentarticle 100, the first region 101 is designed to be placed towards theanterior region of the vulva region of the wearer. By not having thesecond region, the absorbent article 100 will not be positioned in theperinea region of the wearer, which may provide improved comfort to thewearer. Alternatively, by having the second region 107 present, theabsorbent article may provide superior leak protection to the wearer, bycreating a seal completely surrounding the labia majora of a wearer. Asa result, any and all fluid leaving the vaginal cavity will be confinedto the absorbent article.

The shell 114 of the absorbent article 100 may be prepared from avariety of materials. The shell may include a layer constructed of anymaterial which will function to be operatively liquid impermeable. Theshell 114 may, for example, include a polymeric film, a woven fabric, anonwoven fabric or the like, as well as combinations or compositesthereof. For example, the shell 114 may include a polymer film laminatedto a woven or nonwoven fabric. A laminate shell 114 structure is shownin FIG. 6, having an upper layer 141 and a lower layer 142, wherein theupper layer 141 is the body-facing side of the shell 114 and the lowerlayer 142 is the garment facing side of the shell 114. In a particularfeature, the polymer film can be composed of polyethylene,polypropylene, polyester, silicone or the like, as well as combinationsthereof. Additionally, the polymer film may be micro-embossed, have aprinted design, have a printed message to the consumer, and/or may be atleast partially colored. Suitably, the shell 114 can operatively permita sufficient passage of air and moisture vapor out of the absorbentarticle 100, particularly out of an absorbent structure 121 whileblocking the passage of bodily fluids and odors often associated withbodily fluids. An example of a suitable shell material can include abreathable, microporous film, such as those described in, for example,U.S. Pat. No. 6,045,900 to Haffner et al., the entire disclosure ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof. Othershell materials which are extensible may be used in the presentinvention, including, for example foams. One example of a suitable foamis a polyurethane foam with a negative Poisson's ratio. Examples ofextensible backsheet materials are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,611,790,issued Mar. 18, 1997, to Osborn, III et al., herein incorporated byreference in its entirety. Other materials that are inherentlybreathable, such as polyurethanes, may be used to form the shell 114.

In one particular embodiment of the present invention, the shell 114 maybe a laminate of a woven or nonwoven fabric with a silicone polymer,wherein the silicone polymer has adhesive properties. The second side117 of the shell will be woven or nonwoven fabric and the first side 115of the shell will be silicone polymer. One commercially availablelaminate is an Oleeva Fabric® I available from Bio Med Sciences, Inc.,which have offices at 7584 Morris Court, Suite 218 Allentown, Pa. 18106.The Oleeva Fabric® is a silicone sheeting having adhesive propertieslaminated to a fabric backing. The silicone sheeting will form the bodyfacing first side 115 of the shell material. Relating this particularstructure to the Figures, in FIG. 6, the silicone polymer is the upperlayer 141 of the shell 114 and the nonwoven or woven layer is the lowerlayer 142 of the shell.

Bicomponent films or other multi-component films can also be used as theshell 114 material. In addition, woven and/or nonwoven fabrics whichhave been treated to render them operatively liquid-impermeable can alsobe used as an effective shell 114 material. Another suitable shellmaterial can include foams. Examples of foam include a closed-cellpolyolefin foam, a foam with a negative Poisson's ratio and othersimilar foams. Other suitable polymeric materials include a polyurethanepolymer material, a silicone polymer or other similar materials.Silicone polymers having naturally occurring adhesive properties, orsilicone polymers having a silicone adhesive layer applied thereto areof particular interest for the shell material. Such silicone polymerswill allow the first side 115 of the shell 114 to adhere to the body ofthe wearer without the need of an additional adhesive. These materialsmay be laminated to another material, such that the second side 117 ofthe shell 114, which is the garment facing side of the absorbent article100 is laminated to the other material, so that the adhesive nature ofthe silicone polymer does not adhere the garment to the undergarments ofthe wearer. In another embodiment of the present invention, the shellmaterial may be prepared from an interpenetrating polymer network or twoor more polymers. Generally, one of the polymers of the interpenetratingpolymer network may be a silicone material. Examples of interpenetratingpolymer networks are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,759,560, issued toDillion, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The shell material should be selected such that the overall propertiesof the shell allow the shell material to move with the skin of thewearer during normal use and normal movements by the wearer during use.By “normal movement by the wearer” it is meant any movement thatnormally occurs during use of the absorbent article, including walking,running, sitting, standing, kneeling, riding a bicycle, exercising,playing sports, getting into and out of an automobile, and other similarmovements made by wearers when wearing an absorbent article. The shellshould not be too rigid, such that the shell detaches from the skin ofthe wearer during use and the shell should not be so flexible that theshell tends to twist and bunch during use. The shell should havesufficient flexibility to conform to the skin of the wearer and becomesimilar to a second skin of the wearer. The shell should also have theability to remain attached to the body of the wearer under moist or wetconditions.

Generally, the shell material should have sufficient thickness to allowthe shell 114 to mold to the body of the wearer, but not too thick thatthe shell 114 becomes uncomfortable for the wearer to wear. In addition,the shell 114 should not be so thin that it ineffectively forms a sealwith the skin of the wearer when applied to the wearer, or becomesdetached from the skin of the wearer during use and normal movement ofthe wearer during use or that it does not adequately conform to theshape and skin of the wearer at the point of attachment to the wearer.Depending on the material used for the shell, the typical thickness ofthe shell is between 0.03 mm and about 5.0 mm, more particularly between0.1 mm and 3.0 mm. In one particular embodiment, the thickness of theshell is between 0.25 mm and about 3.0 mm. Again, the actual thicknessused is dependent of several factors including rigidity of the material,the flexibility of the material and the ability of the material toassume the shape of the skin of the wearer at the location of use, whichis typically the vulva region of a wearer.

The second side 117 of the shell 114 may form a portion of thegarment-facing side of the absorbent article 100 when worn by a wearer.The shell material should be selected such that the second side 117 ofthe shell will freely move against the undergarment or clothing of awearer. One way to achieve this result is to construct the second side117 of the shell 114 to have a fairly low coefficient of friction. Thiswill allow the second side 117 of the shell 114 to freely move againstthe undergarment or other clothing worn by the wearer. If the secondside 117 of the shell 114, does not freely move against the undergarmentor other clothing worn by the wearer, the absorbent article may catch onthe undergarment or clothing, which may result in the absorbent articlebeing prematurely and undesirably removed from the wearer or may causethe absorbent article to be shifted from its desired placement againstthe body of a wearer.

In order to achieve the desired coefficient of friction on the secondside 117 of the shell 114, the materials used to prepare the shell couldbe selected such that the second side 117 of the shell material willinherently have the desired coefficient of friction. Alternatively, thesecond side 117 of the shell 114 may be treated with a coatingcomposition, such a polytetrafluoroethylene containing coating, asilicone containing coating or other similar coating having lowcoefficient of friction properties. Alternatively, the shell 114 couldbe made from a laminate of two or more materials such that the firstside 115 of the shell 114 is prepared from a material which meets theneeded properties of the first side 115, while the material selected forthe second side 117 of the shell 114 meets the desired coefficient offriction such that the second side 117 will move freely against theundergarment or garment being worn by a wearer.

The shell 114 of the absorbent article 100 may be flat or may have athree-dimensional shape. As is shown in FIG. 5, which is across-sectional side view of the absorbent article, the shell 114 has athree-dimensional concave shape. Alternatively, as is shown incross-sectional side views of FIG. 6, the shell 114 may have a generallyflat shape. By providing the absorbent article 100 with athree-dimensional concave shape, as is shown in FIG. 5, placement of thearticle may be easier for the wearer. Generally, the three-dimensionalshape could be such that it closely matches the overall generalcurvature of the vulva region and optionally the pubic and perinearegions of most women, when the absorbent article is used as apanty-liner, sanitary napkin or a feminine incontinence article. To formthe shell 114 with a three-dimensional shape, the shell may be molded inany manner known to those skilled in the art, for example heat molding.The manner in which the three-dimensional shape is imparted to the shell114 is not critical to the present invention.

When the shell 114 is a generally flat shape, for example as shown inFIG. 6, meaning that the shell does not have a third dimension otherthan thickness, the shell 114 should be made to be flexible enough thatthe shell 114 can conform to the body of the wearer at the point ofattachment. In addition to being flat, the overall shape of the shell114 may be contoured, as is shown in FIG. 1. In one embodiment, thecontour shape may be such that the narrowest point of the contour is inthe crotch area of the shell 114 nearest the vulva region, as is shownin FIG. 1. The contour shape shown in FIG. 1 is one of many possibleshapes, in which the shell 114 and absorbent article may be prepared.Other shapes may be used, without departing from the scope of thepresent invention. Generally, the shape selected should be such that theshell 114 and absorbent article 100 are comfortable for the wearer towear, while providing leakage protection to the wearer. It is noted thata contour shape may also be used in conjunction with a three-dimensionalshell. Further discussion of the overall shape of the absorbent articlemay be found below.

The shell may be any desired color or may be translucent. In addition,the shell may have a matte finish, satin finish or a smooth finish. Theparticular finish color or translucency can be a matter of choice forthe manufacturer of the absorbent article of the present invention.However, providing a shell which is translucent may assist the wearer inplacing the absorbent article 100 prior to use, since the wearer may beable to see where the article is placed compared to the genitalia of thewearer.

The absorbent structure 121 is designed to absorb body exudates,including menstrual fluid, blood, urine, and other bodily fluids, suchas sweat and vaginal discharges. The absorbent structure 121 has alongitudinal direction 1 and a lateral direction 2 and is shown in FIGS.1-4, and a thickness in the z-direction 3, as is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.This absorbent structure 121 may be a single layer or may be multiplelayers. Typically, the absorbent structure 121 has an absorbent core 122and a generally liquid impermeable backsheet 123. This absorbent core122 may contain one or more layers of absorbent materials. That is, theabsorbent core 122 may be a single layer of absorbent materials or maybe a multilayer structure. Each of the layers of the absorbent core 122can contain similar materials or different materials. In the absorbentarticle 100 of the present invention, the materials which may be used toform the absorbent core 122 include those materials conventionally usedin absorbent articles and includes materials, such as, for example,cellulose, wood pulp fluff, rayon, cotton, and meltblown polymers suchas polyester, polypropylene or coform. Coform is a meltblown air-formedcombination of meltblown polymers, such as polypropylene, and absorbentstaple fibers, such as cellulose. A desired material is wood pulp fluff,for it is low in cost, relatively easy to form, and has good absorbency.

The absorbent core 122 can also be formed from a composite comprised ofa hydrophilic material which may be formed from various natural orsynthetic fibers, wood pulp fibers, regenerated cellulose or cottonfibers, or a blend of pulp and other fibers. One particular example of amaterial which may be used as the absorbent core is an airlaid material.The absorbent core 122 may have other properties includingextensibility, which will allow the absorbent core to be extended or fitto a particular wearer. One example of extensible absorbent cores isdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,611,790, issued Mar. 18, 1997, to Osborn,III et al., herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In one embodiment, the absorbent core 122 may also include asuperabsorbent material, in addition to or in place of the hydrophilicmaterial, which increases the ability of the absorbent core to absorb alarge amount of fluid in relation to its own weight. Generally stated,the superabsorbent material can be a water-swellable, generallywater-insoluble, hydrogel-forming polymeric absorbent material, which iscapable of absorbing at least about 15, suitably about 30, and possiblyabout 60 times or more its weight in physiological saline (e.g., salinewith 0.9 wt % NaCl). The superabsorbent materials can be inserted asparticles or in sheet form. The superabsorbent material may bebiodegradable or bipolar. The hydrogel-forming polymeric absorbentmaterial may be formed from organic hydrogel-forming polymeric material,which may include natural material such as agar, pectin, and guar gum;modified natural materials such as carboxymethyl cellulose, carboxyethylcellulose, and hydroxypropyl cellulose; and synthetic hydrogel-formingpolymers. Synthetic hydrogel-forming polymers include, for example,alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylamides, polyvinylalcohol, ethylene maleic anhydride copolymers, polyvinyl ethers,polyvinyl morpholinone, polymers and copolymers of vinyl sulfonic acid,polyacrylates, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl pyridine, and the like. Othersuitable hydrogel-forming polymers include hydrolyzed acrylonitrilegrafted starch, acrylic acid grafted starch, and isobutylene maleicanhydride copolymers and mixtures thereof. The hydrogel-forming polymersmay be lightly cross-linked to render the material substantially waterinsoluble. Crosslinking may, for example, be by irradiation or covalent,ionic, Van der Waals, or hydrogen bonding. Hydroxyfunctional polymershave been found to be good superabsorbents for sanitary napkins. Suchsuperabsorbents are commercially available from Evonik Industries, amongothers, and are a partially neutralized salt of cross-linked copolymerof polyacrylic acid and polyvinyl alcohol having an absorbency underload value above 25 grams of absorbed liquid per gram of absorbentmaterial (g/g). Other types of superabsorbent materials known to thoseskilled in the art can also be used.

Selection of the actual materials used for the absorbent core 122 iswithin the skill of those skilled in the art. The actual materials usedfor the absorbent core are not critical to the present invention.

The generally liquid impermeable backsheet 123 is present in theabsorbent structure 121 to prevent fluid entering the absorbent core 122from flowing through the absorbent core 122 and onto a garment orundergarment being worn by a wearer. Suitable liquid impermeable backingsheets include, for example, a polymeric film, a woven fabric, anonwoven fabric or the like, as well as combinations or compositesthereof. Generally, any material that may be used as the shell materialdescribed above may be used as the backsheet 123 of the absorbentstructure 121. The liquid impermeable backsheet 123 may be a polymericfilm, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric or the like, as well ascombinations or composites thereof. For example, the liquid impermeablebacksheet 123 may include a polymer film laminated to a woven ornonwoven fabric. In a particular feature, the polymer film can becomposed of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, silicone or thelike, as well as combinations thereof. Additionally, the polymer filmmay be micro-embossed, have a printed design, have a printed message tothe consumer, and/or may be at least partially colored. Suitably, theliquid impermeable backsheet 123 can operatively permit a sufficientpassage of air and moisture vapor out of the absorbent article 100,particularly out of an absorbent structure 121 while blocking thepassage of bodily fluids and odors often associated with bodily fluids.An example of suitable materials for the liquid impermeable backsheet123 can include a breathable, microporous film, such as those describedin, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,045,900 to Haffner et al., the entiredisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference and made a parthereof.

The side of the backsheet 123 which faces the undergarment or garmentsof a wearer should have a low coefficient of friction for the samereasons that the second side 117 of the shell should have a lowcoefficient of friction. This will allow the garment facing side of thebacksheet 123 to move freely against the undergarment or clothing of awearer. If the garment facing side of the backsheet 123 does not freelymove against the undergarment or other clothing worn by the wearer, theabsorbent article may catch on the undergarment or clothing, which mayresult in the absorbent article or the absorbent structure beingprematurely and undesirably removed from the wearer or may cause theabsorbent article to be shifted from its desired placement against thebody of a wearer. In addition by having both the garment facing side ofthe backsheet 123 and the second side 117 of the shell freely moveagainst the undergarment or clothing of the wearer, the body attachedabsorbent article will be comfortable for a wearer to wear and mayprovide improved protection since the undergarment or clothing will notcause the absorbent article to shift during use.

Generally, the absorbent structure will be positioned adjacent to thesecond side 117 of the shell 114, as can be clearly seen in FIGS. 1-6.By “adjacent to the shell”, it is meant that the absorbent structure 121is directly in contact with the second side 117 of the shell 114 or maybe separated by one or two additional layers or a construction orpressure sensitive adhesive. The absorbent structure should bepositioned such that the absorbent core 122 is beneath the opening 105so that any fluid flowing through the opening 105 will come into contactwith the absorbent core 122.

In addition to the absorbent core 122, the absorbent structure 121 mayhave other additional layers which aid the absorbent core 122 incapturing and holding the bodily fluid into the absorbent core 122.These other layers, when present and in combination with the absorbentcore 122, form the absorbent structure 121 of the absorbent article 100.There may be a single layer or multiple layers in addition to theabsorbent core 122 in the absorbent structure 121.

One particular example of an additional layer which may be used inaddition to the absorbent core 122 in the absorbent structure 121 is atop sheet 124, which is generally a liquid permeable material, whichallows bodily fluids to pass through the top-sheet into the absorbentcore. The top sheet 124 also may provide a wearer with a dry feeling byseparating the absorbent core 122 from the body of the wearer. That is,the top sheet 124 is placed between the absorbent core 122 and the bodyof the wearer and such that the absorbent core 122 is between the topsheet 124 and the shell 114.

Optionally, the top sheet 124 may be formed from one or more materials.The top sheet 124 should be able to manage different body excretionsdepending on the type of product. In feminine care products, often thetop sheet 124 must be able to handle menses and urine. In addition, thetop sheet 124 may be comfortable, soft and friendly to the wearer'sskin. In the present invention, the top sheet 124 may include a layerconstructed of any operative material, and may be a composite material.For example, the top sheet can include a woven fabric, a nonwovenfabric, a polymer film, a film-nonwoven fabric laminate or the like, aswell as combinations thereof. Examples of a nonwoven fabric useable inthe top sheet 124 include, for example, an airlaid nonwoven web, aspunbond nonwoven web, a meltblown nonwoven web, a bonded-carded web, ahydroentangled nonwoven web, a spunlace web or the like, as well ascombinations thereof. Other examples of suitable materials forconstructing the top sheet 124 can include rayon, bonded-carded webs ofpolyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, or other heat-bondablefibers, finely perforated film webs, net-like materials, and the like,as well as combinations thereof. These webs can be prepared frompolymeric materials such as, for example, polyolefins, such aspolypropylene and polyethylene and copolymers thereof, polyesters ingeneral including aliphatic esters such as polylactic acid, nylon or anyother heat-bondable materials. When the top sheet is a film or a filmlaminate, the film should be apertured or otherwise be made to allowfluids to flow through the top sheet to the absorbent core.

Other examples of suitable materials for the top sheet 124 are compositematerials of a polymer and a nonwoven fabric material. The compositematerials are typically in the form of integral sheets generally formedby the extrusion of a polymer onto a nonwoven web, such as a spunbondmaterial. In a particular arrangement, the top sheet 124 can beconfigured to be operatively liquid-permeable with regard to the liquidsthat the article is intended to absorb or otherwise handle. Theoperative liquid-permeability may, for example, be provided by aplurality of pores, perforations, apertures or other openings, as wellas combinations thereof, which are present or formed in the liner orbody contacting layer. The apertures or other openings can help increasethe rate at which bodily liquids can move through the thickness of theliner or body contacting layer and penetrate into the other componentsof the article (e.g. into the absorbent core 122). The selectedarrangement of liquid permeability is desirably present at least on anoperative portion of the top sheet 124 that is appointed for placementon the body-side of the article. The top sheet 124 can provide comfortand conformability, and can function to direct bodily exudates away fromthe body and toward the absorbent core 122. The top sheet 124 can beconfigured to retain little or no liquid in its structure, and can beconfigured to provide a relatively comfortable and non-irritatingsurface next to the body tissues of a wearer. In the present invention,the top sheet 124 positioned over the absorbent core may have a surfacewhich is embossed, printed or otherwise imparted with a pattern.

Additional layers or substrates, including for example, the liquidacquisition and distribution layer, also referred to as a surge ortransfer layer, and an optional tissue layer are also incorporated intothe absorbent structure 121 of the absorbent product 100, for example,between the top sheet 124 and the absorbent core 122. The distributionlayer may be shorter than the absorbent core or have the same length asthe absorbent core 122. The distribution layer serves to temporarilyhold an insulting fluid to allow the absorbent core sufficient time toabsorb the fluid, especially when a superabsorbent material is present.

In another embodiment, the absorbent core, transfer layer and othercomponents, such as tissue layers, may be free floating (unattached)between the shell 114 and the top sheet 124, and are secured along onlythe peripheral edges thereof. Alternatively, the absorbent core 122,transfer layer, if present, and any other layer or component, ifpresent, may be attached to one or both of the second side 117 of theshell 114 and top sheet 124 and/or to each other.

The absorbent structure 121, including the absorbent core 122, isgenerally attached to the second side 117 of the shell 114, such thatthe absorbent core is positioned under the opening 105 in the shell. Theabsorbent structure 121 may be attached to the shell 114 in a permanentmanner, meaning that the absorbent structure is generally intended notto be removable by the wearer of the absorbent article 100.Alternatively, the absorbent structure 121 may be made to be removablyattached to the shell, such that the absorbent structure 121 may beremoved by a wearer of the absorbent article 100 and replaced with thesame absorbent structure 121 or with another new absorbent structure121. When the absorbent structure 121 is attached to the shell 114 in apermanent manner, meaning that the absorbent structure is not intendedto be removed by the wearer, a construction adhesive may be used.Examples of useable construction adhesives include any adhesive whichwill effectively hold the absorbent structure 121 in place, so as not tobe separated from the shell 114. Commercially available constructionadhesives usable in the present invention include, for example Rextacadhesives available from Huntsman Polymers of Houston, Tex., as well asadhesives available from Bostik Findley, Inc., of Wauwatosa, Wis. Othermeans may be used to hold the absorbent structure 121 to the shell,including heat bonding, ultrasonic bonding or other similar mechanicalattachments.

When the absorbent structure 121 is removably attached, the absorbentstructure 121 is held in place to the second side 117 of the shell 114by a means which will allow the wearer to remove the absorbentstructure. One such means of holding the absorbent structure is by usinga pressure sensitive adhesive. Suitable pressure sensitive adhesivesinclude any commercially available pressure sensitive adhesive. Examplesof suitable pressure sensitive adhesives usable to removably hold theabsorbent structure 121 in place on the second side 117 of the shell 114include pressure sensitive adhesives available from National Starch and,having offices in Bridgewater, N.J. 08807. By providing an absorbentstructure 121 which is removable, the shell 114 may be reused severaltimes without the need to again place the shell 114 when the absorbentstructure needs to be replaced. Other means, such as mechanicalattachment may also be used to removably attach the absorbent structure121 to the shell 114. Also by having a removable absorbent structure121, the absorbent structure can be selected by the wearer prior to use.This would allow the wearer to select an appropriate level of protectionfor a given day or allow the wearer to select a size or shape of theabsorbent which the wearer finds to be more comfortable. When theabsorbent structure 121 is removable, and adhesively attached to theshell 114, the adhesive could be designed to remain on the shell orremain only on the absorbent structure. Generally, the adhesive shouldbe placed on the absorbent structure 121, since this will provide freshadhesive to hold the new absorbent in place each time the absorbentstructure 121 is replaced. If the adhesive is present on the absorbentstructure 121, a release sheet may be place over the adhesive so thatthe adhesive is not contaminated with dirt or debris which may have anadverse effect in holding the absorbent structure 121 to the shell 114.

To aid a wearer in replacing the absorbent structure 121, placement aidmay be present on the shell 114 and/or the absorbent structure. Suitableplacement aids include the use of color, tactile indicators or any othermeans that would assist the wearer in replacing a removed absorbentstructure.

Another important advantage of having an absorbent structure, which isremovable, is that the wearer may be able to perform normal bodilyfunctions, such as urination. By having the absorbent which isremovable, a wearer could remove the absorbent, urinate and replace theabsorbent. This would alleviate the need of a wearer to have to replacethe entire absorbent article 100 in order to form bodily functions. Asanother alternative, the absorbent structure 121 could be attached tothe shell in such a manner that the absorbent structure is hinged with ahinging means, as is shown in FIG. 7.

The absorbent structure 121 may be a relatively flat structure, as shownin FIG. 6 or the absorbent structure 121 may be curved to match theshape of the shell 114, as is shown in FIG. 5. The size, location andshape of the absorbent structure 121 may also be selected for anintended use. For example, in an overnight use, the absorbent may belocated further back on the wearer towards the perinea region of thewearer. In an overnight use, the absorbent structure may be larger thanin a product intended for daytime use. In a daytime use, the absorbentstructure will generally be centrally located in the vulva region.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the shell 114material may also be provided with some absorbency in addition to theabsorbent structure 121. One way to achieve absorbency in the shell isto have the shell 114 prepared from a material which is a laminate oftwo or more materials. The first side 115 of the shell 114 contains anabsorbent material within the body facing side of the laminate. Forexample, superabsorbent particles or materials may be incorporated intothe material making up the body facing layer of the laminate. Anotherway is to place a very light coating onto the first side 115 of theshell material, wherein the coating contains superabsorbent particles ormaterials. Of course other absorbent materials, other thansuperabsorbent materials may be used in place of or in addition to thesuperabsorbent materials.

The absorbent core 122 of the absorbent structure 121 may be locatedentirely within the opening 105 in the shell 114, or the absorbent core122 of the absorbent structure may extend past the opening 105 in theshell, as is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, meaning that a portion of theabsorbent core 122 contacts or is facing the second side 117 of theshell 114. Alternatively, the absorbent structure 121 may extend pastthe ends 104, 104′ of the shell 114 or the second region 107 of theshell.

The liquid backsheet 123 may be a polymeric film, a woven fabric, anonwoven fabric or the like, as well as combinations or compositesthereof. For example, the liquid backsheet 123 may include a polymerfilm laminated to a woven or nonwoven fabric. In a particular feature,the polymer film can be composed of polyethylene, polypropylene,polyester, silicone or the like, as well as combinations thereof.Additionally, the polymer film may be micro-embossed, have a printeddesign, have a printed message to the consumer, and/or may be at leastpartially colored. Suitably, the liquid backsheet 123 can operativelypermit a sufficient passage of air and moisture vapor out of theabsorbent article 100, particularly out of an absorbent structure 121while blocking the passage of bodily fluids and odors often associatedwith bodily fluids. An example of a suitable material for the liquidbacksheet 123 can include a breathable, microporous film, such as thosedescribed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,045,900 to Haffner et al.,the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference andmade a part hereof. Other materials that may be used in preparing thebacksheet 123 include materials which are inherently breathable, such aspolyurethanes.

As is stated above, the first side 115 of the shell 114 either directlyor indirectly attaches to the body of a wearer. Stated another way, theshell is the body attachment member and the first area 115 is theportion of the shell 114 which is attached to the body of the wearer.Depending on the material selected for the shell, the shell may activelyattach to the body of the wearer using electrostatic means; suctionmeans or a body adhesive may be placed on the first side 115 of theshell 114 to attach the absorbent article to the body of a wearer.Electrostatic means which can be used is by selecting the shell materialto be a material which has an affinity for the body of a wearer, suchthat the shell material “clings” to the body of the wearer. Examples ofsuch materials include ethylene vinyl acetate, low density polyethyleneand other similar materials know to those skilled in the art. Suctionmeans may be achieved by shaping the shell to conform to the body of thewearer, much like a contact lens fits to the eye. Generally, suctionmeans can be achieved by forming the shell 114 into a three-dimensionalshape. The easiest way to achieve body attachment is to place a bodyadhesive in the first side 115 of the shell 114.

A body adhesive 144 is positioned on the first side 115 of the shell114. The body adhesive 144 contacts the skin and hair, if present, inthe vulva region and possibly the pubic region and/or the perinea regionof the wearer's body, thereby supporting and holding the absorbentarticle 100 against the body of the wearer during use. The body adhesive144 can overlie a portion of the first side 115 or can overlie the firstside 115 of the shell 114. Generally, the body adhesive 144 will bepresent on at least the outer portion first side of the shell near theedge 120 of the absorbent article 100. The adhesive may cover the entirefirst side 115 of the absorbent article (not shown in the drawings).Alternatively, the body adhesive 144 may be placed on a portion of thefirst side, as is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The body adhesive 144 may alsobe placed in a pattern of the first side 115 of the absorbent article.The body adhesive 144 can be applied to the first side 115 of the shell114 of using any known process including inkjet printing, screenprinting or extruding the body adhesive 144 from one or more nozzles,slot coating and the like.

Generally, any pressure sensitive adhesive known to those skilled in theart may be used, provided that the pressure sensitive adhesive is not aknown irritant to human skin or that the adhesive is so aggressive thatit causes pain to the wearer when the absorbent article is removed fromthe skin. It is also desirable that the adhesive is selected such thatthe adhesive does not leave a substantial amount of an adhesive residueon the surface of the skin of the wearer, when the absorbent article 100is removed by the wearer after use. Particularly suitable pressuresensitive adhesive materials are disclosed in the commonly assigned U.S.Pat. No. 6,213,993 to Zacharias et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,620,143 toZacharias et al., the entire disclosure of each is incorporated hereinby reference and made a part hereof. Other suitable adhesives aredisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,618,281 to Batrabet et al., the entiredisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference and made a parthereof. Other known body adhesives, such as those described in U.S. Pat.No. 6,316,524 to Corzani et al. which is hereby incorporated in itsentirety, may also be used. Additional examples of pressure sensitiveadhesives include hydrogels, hydrocolloids, acrylics based adhesives,and rubber based adhesives, such as Kraton based adhesives.

The body adhesive 144 may be positioned on the first side 115 of theshell 114 in an open pattern or a closed pattern. By “open pattern” ismeant that the adhesive can have an intermittent or discontinuouspattern which does not substantially encircle the entire opening 105.For example, there may be breaks in the body adhesive at certainportions of the first side 115. “Closed pattern” means the adhesive 144would encircle the entire opening 105 in the shell. In one embodiment,the pattern of the body adhesive 144 will substantially surround thecover of the first side 115 and substantially surround the opening 105.An example of an “open” pattern of the adhesive would be to haveindividual beads of adhesive applied in a discontinuous fashion. In thepresent invention, the closed pattern can be advantageous since the bodyadhesive 144 may form a seal with the body of the wearer which willassist in preventing leaks from the absorbent article 100. The bodyadhesive may form a dam, which may prevent leaks from the entireperimeter of the absorbent article 100.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the body adhesive 144 may beplaced on the entire first side 115 of the shell 114, as is shown inFIG. 1. In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, asis shown in FIG. 2, the body adhesive 144 may be placed along the outerportions of the first side 115 near the periphery of the shell 114, suchthat no adhesive is near the opening 105. The body adhesive 144 may alsobe placed on the absorbent structure 121 positioned on the second side117 of the shell 114 to help hold the absorbent article in place on thewearer. Generally, however, the body adhesive 144 is confined to beingplaced on the first side 115 of the shell 114, since placing the bodyadhesive on an area of the absorbent product 100 which contacts thefemale genitalia such as the labia majora may cause discomfort to thewearer of the absorbent product 100.

The adhesive may be applied in a pattern of small discrete dots so as toleave numerous areas free from adhesive. Alternatively, the adhesive maybe applied as a continuous bead, or may be applied as a series ofsemi-continuous beads. Other suitable adhesive patterns may be selectedfor applying the body adhesive 144 to the body-contacting first side 115of the absorbent article 100. For example, adhesive patterns can beoval, swirls, various linear or non-linear arrays of adhesivelongitudinally, and/or transversely oriented and reticulated webs havingunobstructed interstices between the adhesive fibers or combinationsthereof. As stated above, the adhesive patterns may be open or closed.The weights of adhesives are limited to less than about 800 g/m2, andgenerally less than about 400 g/m2. Generally, the weight of theadhesive is at least 20 g/m2. Typically, the adhesive is applied in anamount of about 100 to about 400 g/m2. The limitations on the basisweight of the adhesive are important to provide the correct adhesivecharacteristics for applying directly to the wearer's vulva region andoptionally the pubic and perinea regions of the wearer's body. If thebasis weight is too high, the absorbent article will have a stickyfeeling or otherwise uncomfortable feeling. If the basis weight of theadhesive is too low, there may be insufficient adhesion to the body ofthe wearer.

Generally, the body adhesive 144 is applied in a manner which issymmetrical about the longitudinal axis which bisects the absorbentarticle 100 and divides the absorbent article 100 into substantiallyequal portions. This symmetrical pattern provides the wearer a balancedfeel when wearing the absorbent article 100. The symmetrical patternalso reduces the perception of any associated discomfort when theabsorbent article 100 is removed from the body.

As is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, to protect the body adhesive 144, a peelsheet or release sheet 146 may be used to prevent the body adhesive 144from becoming contaminated, thus losing its ability to stick to the bodyof a wearer and/or prematurely adhering to an unintended surface.Suitable materials for use as a peel strip 146 are well known in the artand are commercially available. Examples of suitable peel sheets orrelease sheets include, a silicone coated Kraft paper, a silicone coatedfilm or the like. Other release coating includes coating containingpolytetrafluoroethylene. The peel sheet or release sheet 146 may extendbeyond one or both of the ends and/or sides of the shell, as shown inFIG. 9. Alternatively, the release sheet 46 may be sized to only coverthe body adhesive on the first side 115 of the shell 114, as is shown inFIG. 8. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the releasesheet may extend beyond the adhesive at one or more locations, such asone of the ends or one of the sides of the shell by providing therelease sheet 146 with a tab 147 for the wearer to grasp to remove therelease sheet 146 from the absorbent article 100 and the body adhesive144 on the absorbent article 100. When the release sheet 146 extendsbeyond the adhesive, it is generally easier for the wearer to remove therelease sheet 146 to place the absorbent article 100 for use.

Alternatively, the release sheet 146 may be provided with a pressuresensitive adhesive to hold the release sheet 146 in place when theabsorbent article is devoid of an adhesive for body attachment. In thisconfiguration, the release sheet 146 serves to protect the absorbentstructure and first side of the shell from dirt and damage prior to use.

In another alternative, a release sheet may not be necessary. Forexample, the absorbent article may be rolled, folded onto itself orstacked upon each other. In these configurations, a release sheet is notneeded. If rolled, the body adhesive 144 will generally contact thesecond side 117 of the shell 114 or the liquid impermeable backsheet 123of the absorbent structure. The body adhesive 144 should releasablystick to one second side of the shell by readily releasing when unrolledby the wearer. In addition, the body adhesive 144 should not leave aresidue on the second side 117 of the shell 114, of the backsheet 123.This should similarly occur when the absorbent articles 100 are stackedupon each other such that the body adhesive 144 of one article willattach the second side 117 of the shell and/or backing sheet of a secondarticle. In another possible configuration, the absorbent article 100may be folded along the longitudinal axis 1 of the lateral axis suchthat the body adhesive 144 in one area comes into contact with bodyadhesive in another area. In the folded configuration, the body adhesiveshould be selected such that the body adhesive will release from itselfwhen manipulated by a wearer.

The dimensions and shape of the shell 114 should be such that it isappropriately sized for its intended use. The same is true for the sizeand shape of the absorbent structure 121 and the size of the opening105. Generally, the size and shape of the absorbent structure 121 willdictate the size of the shell 114. The shape of the shell 114 isselected so that the absorbent article will have a comfortable feelingfor the wearer, thereby providing protection against leaks andpreventing the absorbent article from becoming dislodged from the bodyof the wearer during use. Generally, the shell 114 will be curved to fitthe body of a wearer. The shell 114 also generally gives the absorbentarticle 100 its overall size and shape in the longitudinal 1 and lateral2 directions. That is, the shell is generally longer and wider than theabsorbent structure, as can be seen in the figures. In other words, theshell 114 will be wider in the lateral direction 2 than the absorbentstructure 121, and the shell will be longer in the longitudinaldirection 1 than the absorbent structure 121. As is mentioned above, itis possible for the absorbent structure 121 to be longer than the shell114 but it is not generally wider.

When the absorbent article 100 is intended for use as a pantiliner, asanitary napkin or a feminine incontinence article, the shell 114 shouldbe wider and longer than the absorbent structure 121 attached to thesecond side 117 of the shell 114. The opening 105 in the shell 114should generally be at least as wide and as long as the labia majora ofthe wearer. This will prevent the shell 114 from contacting thesensitive parts of a wearer's body. The absorbent structure 121 shouldbe as large as or larger than the opening 105. As a result, to fit mostwomen, the absorbent structure 121 is longer in the longitudinaldirection 1 than it is wide in the lateral direction 2 of the absorbentstructure. Generally, for most women, the labia majora are generallybetween about 40 mm and about 70 mm in width and between about 80 mm and150 mm in length. Ideally, the absorbent structure 121 and opening 105should be wider than the labia majora and slightly longer than the labiaminora and slightly longer than or equal to the labia majora. Generally,the absorbent structure 121 and opening 105 should be between about 40mm and 90 mm in width in the lateral direction 2 and between about 95 mmand about 150 mm in length in the longitudinal direction 1. The shape ofthe absorbent structure 121 and opening 105 will generally tend to beoblong and may be an oval, a rectangle, tear drop shaped, hourglassshaped or racetrack shaped. As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, theabsorbent structure 121 may be generally elliptical or oval in shape tomatch the size and shape of the vaginal area of most women.

Generally, the shape of the shell 114 may vary from a generally ovalshape, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, to a shape which is a generallyhourglass-like shape, shown in FIGS. 1 and 3. By a generally hourglassshape, it is meant shape in which the sides 119 of the shell 114converge towards one another at a point along the longitudinal axis ofthe shell 114 to form a narrowest portion 133 of the absorbent article100. Generally, the hourglass-like shape provides a cut-out for thewearer's legs. By having an hourglass-like shape, the shell 114 will notbe attached to the legs of a wearer during use. This will provide morecomfort for the wearer of the absorbent article 100. The shape of theshell 114 should be selected such that the absorbent article 100 will becomfortable to wear, while providing very effective leakage protectionto the wearer. The shell 114 and the absorbent structure 121 should beable to adapt to the curvature of a wearers body during use. Otherpossible shapes for the shell 114 not specifically shown may also beused, provided that the shape will provide comfort to the wearer of theabsorbent article.

To obtain an effective attachment of the absorbent article to thewearer, when the absorbent article is used as a sanitary napkin or anincontinence article, generally the width of the shell should be atleast 10 mm on either side of the labia majora. Generally, the shell 114of the absorbent article 100 will have a width, in the lateral direction2, between about 50 mm up to 200 mm or more. Typically, the shell willbe between about 60 and 120 mm at its narrowest point. This will allowthe shell 114 to have a first side 115 that can be effectively attachedto the skin of a wearer on either side of the labia majora.

In addition, the absorbent article 100 may also be configured to have ananterior region 164, a central region 165 and a posterior region 166, asis shown in FIG. 1. As used herein, the term “anterior” refers to thedirection towards the front of the wearer during use. As used herein,the term “posterior” refers to the direction towards the back of thewearer during use. A particular embodiment is shown in FIG. 1 of anabsorbent article having a configuration designed to fit specific areasof the vulva region of a wearer. By providing specific portions forattachment to specific areas of the body of the wearer, the absorbentarticle may be configured to better fit the body of the wearer. Theanterior region 164 of the absorbent article will be the portion of theabsorbent article between the absorbent structure 121 and the first end161 of the absorbent article 100. The posterior region 166 of theabsorbent article 100 will be the portion of the absorbent articlebetween the absorbent structure 121 and the second end 162 of theabsorbent article 100. Generally, the posterior region 166 will bedesigned to be placed between the vagina area and the anal area of thewearer. The anterior region 164 is designed to be placed on the monsVeneris region of a female wearer. The central region 165 of theabsorbent article 100 is designed to cover the vagina area of the wearerand the skin area surrounding the lateral sides of the labia majora,when the absorbent article is used as a pantiliner, sanitary napkin oran incontinence article. In an alternative use, the absorbent article ofthe present invention may also be used as an underwear replacement, or aguard for a swimming suit.

To obtain an effective attachment to the body of the wearer, the shell114 can be configured to be anatomically correct for a wearer. As isshown in FIG. 10, the shape of the absorbent article 100 is such that itwill correctly and securely fit in the vulva region of a wearer. Thegeneral shape of the absorbent article shown in FIG. 10 has been foundto effectively attach to the vulva region of female wearers of theabsorbent article. Additional features may be included to ensure ananatomically correct shape. For example, in the posterior region of theabsorbent article 100, more particularly, the posterior region of theshell on the first side 115, the shell 114 may be imparted with athree-dimensional protrusion 167, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. Theprotrusion 167 acts to fit comfortably in the perinea region of thewearer. The protrusion 167 may be formed from the shell material or maybe formed from the body adhesive 144. By providing the three-dimensionalprotrusion 167, the absorbent article 100 can effectively fit to thetypical body shape of the female wearer, thereby preventing leaks formthe posterior region of the absorbent article. The protrusion 167 mayalso serve as a guide to the wearer in placement of the absorbentarticle 100 on the body of a wearer prior to use.

The absorbent article 100 of the present invention may have otherfeatures which aid the wearer to place and remove the absorbent articlefrom the body. As is shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the second side 117 ofthe shell 114 or the backsheet 123 may be provided with positioning aidssuch as a finger pocket 199, shown in FIG. 12, or finger grooves in theshell 114 (not shown) material or backsheet 123 of the absorbentstructure 121 as is shown in FIG. 12. Generally, the finger pocket 199has an opening 198 positioned such that a wearer inserts their fingerstowards the posterior region 166 or second end 162 of the absorbentarticle 100. The pocket 199 gives the wearer a location to place herfingers during placement of the absorbent article 100 onto the wearer'sbody. The pocket 199 may be an opening wide enough for the wearer toplace at least two fingers in the pocket. Alternatively, there may betwo or more openings which allow the wearer to place only one finger ineach opening. Other similar positioning aids may be used to help guide awearer to properly place the absorbent article for use. For example,grooves may be placed in the second side 117 of the shell 114 orbacksheet 123 of the absorbent structure. This may allow the wearer tofeel the location of the absorbent structure relative to the vulvaregion during application of the absorbent article 100 to the vulvaregion of the body. The pocket 199 may also assist the wearer inremoving the absorbent article from their body or removing the absorbentstructure when it needs to be replaced.

The absorbent article 100 may also be provided with a removal aid whichprovides the wearer with an easy way to grasp and remove the absorbentarticle applied to the body. One particular removal aid is shown in FIG.13 including a tab 192 located on the first end 161 of the shell whichis not adhered to the body or is devoid of adhesive. Alternatively,other removal aids, such as having an area of the first end 161 beingdevoid of the body attaching adhesive 144 may be used. Other types ofremoval aid which may be present include loops and pull strings. Theremoval aid allows the wearer to effectively begin the process of gentlyremoving the absorbent article from the body of the wearer, without theneed of having to find a portion of the shell which may not becompletely attached.

Other features or additives may be incorporated into the absorbentarticle of the present invention. For example, the absorbent article maycontain an odor control agent, or a fragrance, skin wellness agents andother similar additives used in currently available absorbent articles.Any odor control agent or fragrance known to those skilled in the artmay be used in the absorbent article 100 of the present invention. Theodor control agent or fragrance may be added in various components ofthe absorbent article, including the shell 114, the absorbent structure121, or the body adhesive 144. Skin wellness additives may be added ontothe absorbent structure, any portion of the first surface 115 of theshell 114 attached to the wearer or in the body adhesive 144.

Generally, to apply the absorbent article 100 to the body of a wearer,the release sheet 146, protecting the absorbent structure and adhesive,if present, is removed from first surface of the shell. Next, the wearerpositions the absorbent structure of the portion of the body in whichabsorbency is needed. If positioning pockets or other positioning aidsare present on the absorbent structure, the wearer may optionally usethese positioning aids to properly place the absorbent article for use.In the case of sanitary napkins and incontinence absorbent articles forfemales, the absorbent is positioned over the vagina area such that theabsorbent structure will absorb body fluids. The wearer then checks toensure that the first region 101 of the shell or the adhesive 144, ifpresent, is contacting the skin around the vagina area.

If the absorbent article is intended to have a front and a back portion,the wearer first identifies the anterior region 164 and/or the posteriorregion 166 of the absorbent article. To aid in identification of theanterior and posterior regions, indicia located on the release sheet146, shell 114 or absorbent structure 121 viewable through the opening105 in the shell 114 to indicate the anterior region and/or posteriorregion of the absorbent article may be present. Indicia can be simplylettering or a picture to indicate the front or back of the absorbentarticle. Once the anterior region and posterior region are identified bythe wearer, the wearer places the absorbent article in the same mannerdescribed above. Examples of indicia which may be used include, color,wording, diagrams and the like, which would indicate to a wearer theanterior and posterior regions of the absorbent article.

In each case, the absorbent structure, which is designed to cover thelabia majora of the wearer, may be positioned with the aid of theabsorbent structure 121 or the opening 105. More specifically, theabsorbent structure and/or the opening, when sized and shaped to theapproximate size of the labia majora, can serve to guide the placementof the absorbent structure 121 over the labia majora. Once properlyplaced, pressure is applied by the wearer to the second side 117 and orbacksheet 123 of the shell which will allow the first surface of theshell to contact the skin of the wearer, or to allow any adhesiveapplied to the first surface to be applied to the skin of the wearer.

By having the absorbent article 100 attached to the body of a wearer,the absorbent article 100 will tend to move with the skin of the wearer.This results in a comfortable to wear absorbent article which will beless likely to leak than conventional absorbent articles. The absorbentarticle has a very close-to-the-body fit which may provide improveddiscretion for the wearer.

Other benefits of the absorbent article 100 of the present invention mayalso be provided. For example, when the first side 115 of the shell hasan adhesive applied thereto, upon removal of the absorbent article afteruse, the wearer may fold the first side of the shell onto itself todispose of the used absorbent article. An effective seal may be formedaround the perimeter of the shell, thereby effectively encapsulating theabsorbent structure within a closure and the backing sheet of theabsorbent layer. As a result, any odors associated with the absorbedfluids will be contained within the shell material and backing layer.Another use of the absorbent article of the present invention is atampon backup absorbent article. The absorbent article could beeffective in hiding the withdraw string of a tampon, while providingadditional leakage protection.

The absorbent article described above can be an individual absorbentarticle or may be part of an absorbent system, offering the wearer awide variety of options to fill the needs of the wearer. For example,the shell could be provided to wearers in a variety of shapes or sizesto allow wearers to select the appropriate shape or size for their givenbody shape. Likewise, the body adhesive may be provided in a variety ofadhesive strengths to match the adhesive strength needed or desired bythe wearer. By providing a variety of adhesive or other attachmentmeans, a wearer could select the shells to match body type, bodycondition and other various factors that may vary from one wearer toanother. Similarly, the absorbent structure could be provided in variousabsorbent capacities so that the wearer could select the appropriateabsorbency to match the wearer's needs.

The absorbent system may be provided to wearers in a variety ofpackaging arrangements. In one packaging arrangement, a plurality ofshells having different properties may be provided in separate packagesor could be provided in a single package. It is generally a betterpackaging arrangement if shells having similar properties, shapes orsizes are provided in a single package. That is, in a given package, thewearer is provided with a plurality of shells all having the same shape,size, and properties, such as the body attachment properties. Regardingthe absorbent structures, the absorbent structures could be provided tothe wearer in packages sorted by absorbent capacity or various absorbentcapacity structures could be provided in a single package. By having allabsorbent structures in a single package with a single absorbentcapacity, a wearer is able to select the correct absorbent capacity fortheir typical needs. However, by providing different absorbent capacityabsorbent structures in a single package, the wearer will be providedwith the ability to select the absorbent structure with the appropriateabsorbent capacity for a given situation, without the need to purchasemultiple packages of absorbent structures.

In another embodiment, a body adhesive absorbent article 200, which isillustrated in FIGS. 14-21, also comprises a shell 214 and an absorbentstructure 221 and has a longitudinal axis X and a transverse axis Y. Theshell 214 has a first region 201, a pair of lateral side regions 202,202′ extending from the first region, and an opening 205 (FIG. 15)extending longitudinally at least in part between the side regions. Theshell 214 also has a first side 215, which defines a body-facing surface(FIG. 14), and a second side 217, which defines a garment-facing surface(FIG. 17). In the illustrated embodiment, the first side 215 of theshell 214 has a body adhesive 244 on at least a portion thereof foradhering the absorbent article 200 directly to the wearer's skin, andparticularly, to a female wearer's skin surrounding her vulva region forthe illustrated absorbent article. The body adhesive 244 contacts theskin and hair, if present, in the vulva region and possibly the pubicregion and/or the perinea region of the wearer's body, therebysupporting and holding the shell 214 and absorbent structure 221 againstthe body of the wearer during use. A peel sheet or release sheet (notshown) may be used to prevent the body adhesive 244 from becomingcontaminated, thus losing its ability to stick to the body of the wearerand/or prematurely adhering to an unintended surface.

Generally, the size and shape of the absorbent structure 221, dependingon its intended use, will dictate the size of the shell 214. The shapeof the shell 214 is selected so that the absorbent article 200 will havea comfortable feeling for the wearer and inhibit the absorbent articleagainst becoming detached from the body of the wearer during use therebyproviding protection against leaks. In one suitable embodiment, theabsorbent article 200, including the shell 214 and absorbent structure221, is dimensioned and shaped to fit approximately 75 percent of adultfemales. It is understood, however, that the absorbent article 200 canbe dimensioned and shaped to fit more or fewer females. It is alsocontemplated that different sizes of the absorbent article 200 may beprovided to accommodate a greater percentage of females.

With reference to FIG. 16, the absorbent article 200 (and hence theshell 214) can be suitably divided into three general longitudinalregions: an anterior region 264, a posterior region 266 and a centralregion 265 extending longitudinally between and interconnecting theanterior and posterior regions. Each of these regions 264, 265, 266 issized and shaped for alignment with different body regions of a wearerof the absorbent article. More specifically, the anterior region 264 ofthe article 200 is adapted to be disposed adjacent the wearer's lowerabdomen region. The central region 265 is adapted to be disposed betweenthe upper thigh region of the wearer to cover the wearer's perineumregion and vaginal region. The posterior region 266 of the article 200is adapted to be disposed in the gluteal region of the wearer.

In the illustrated embodiment, the anterior region 264, the centralregion 265, and the posterior region 266 of the absorbent article 200are of roughly equal length, with each region corresponding generally toabout ⅓ of a total length L1 of the absorbent article 200. The length L1is defined herein as the longitudinal distance from a longitudinallyoutermost extent of the article 200 (and in the illustrated embodiment,the shell 214) in the anterior region 264 to a longitudinally outermostextent of the article (and in the illustrated embodiment, the shell) inthe posterior region 266. As an example, the length L1 of the shell 214(and hence the absorbent article 200 in the illustrated embodiment) maysuitably be in the range of about 170 mm to about 220 mm, and moresuitably in the range of about 190 mm to about 200 mm. As an additionalexample, the absorbent article 200, and more particularly the shell 214,has a length L1 of about 194 mm. It is understood that the absorbentarticle 200 may have a length L1 different that those set forth abovewithout departing from some aspects of this invention. It is alsocontemplated that two or all three of the article regions 264, 265, 266may instead be of unequal lengths depending on the desired fit and theintended body placement of the article without departing from the scopeof this invention.

The absorbent structure 221 of FIGS. 14-21 is suitably adhered to thefirst side (i.e., body-facing surface) 215 of the shell 214 and is sizedand located relative to the shell such that the shell extends bothlongitudinally and transversely outward beyond the periphery of theabsorbent structure in at least the anterior region 264 and the centralregion 265, and more suitably in at least a portion of the posteriorregion 266 as well. The absorbent structure 221 is offsetlongitudinally, i.e., not centered lengthwise on the transverse orlateral axis of the absorbent article, such that the shell 214 extendslongitudinally outward beyond the absorbent structure a greater distancein the anterior region 264 of the article 200 than in the posteriorregion. It is understood, though, that the absorbent structure 221 maybe longitudinally centered so that the shell 214 extends equallylongitudinally outward beyond the absorbent structure, or may be offsetlongitudinally toward the anterior region 264 so that the outwardlongitudinal extension of the shell beyond the absorbent structure isgreater in the posterior region 265 than in the anterior region withoutdeparting from the scope of this invention.

As illustrated in FIG. 16, the anterior region 264 of the absorbentarticle 200 comprises the first region 201 of the shell 214 and includesa portion of the absorbent structure 221. Since much of the first side(i.e., body-facing surface) 215 of the shell 214 is exposed (i.e., notcovered by the absorbent structure 221) in the anterior region 264 ofthe absorbent article 200, a relatively large surface area of the firstside of the shell has body adhesive 244 applied thereto for adhering theshell, and hence the absorbent article, to the wearer.

A first end 261 of the absorbent article 200, and more particularly alongitudinal edge of the anterior region 264 defining this first end ofthe absorbent article 200, is suitably contoured along the width of theshell at this first end to accommodate the lower abdomen region of thewearer. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the longitudinalextent (e.g., length) of the shell 214 relative to the transverse axisof the article is non-uniform across the width of the shell at the firstend 261 of the article, and more suitably increases as the shell extendstransversely outward from the longitudinal axis of the article totransversely, or laterally opposite sides 219 of the article and moreparticularly laterally opposite side edges of the shell. Accordingly, agreatest longitudinal extent of the shell 214 is generally adjacent theintersection of the longitudinal end 261 with the respective sides 219of the article (i.e., the shell in the embodiment of FIG. 16). Moresuitably, the longitudinal edge of the shell 214 (i.e., at first end 261of article 200 in the illustrated embodiment) is generally arcuate as itextends across the width of the shell at its longitudinal edge. It isunderstood, however, that the contour of the longitudinal edge of theshell 214 in the anterior region 264 of the article may be V-shaped,U-shaped or other suitable shape without departing from the scope ofthis invention.

The contoured longitudinal edge of the shell 214 (i.e., first end 261 ofthe article 200 in the illustrated embodiment) thus broadly defines arecess in the anterior region 264 of the article (and thus of the shellin this instance). This recess defines a longitudinal distance D1between the longitudinally outermost extent of the longitudinal edge ofthe shell 214 in the anterior region 264 and the longitudinal extent ofthe longitudinal edge of the shell at the longitudinal axis of thearticle 200 in the anterior region. In one suitable embodiment, thedistance D1 of the recess is in the range of about 5 mm to about 35 mm,and more suitably about 12 mm to about 18 mm. As one example, thedistance D1 of the recess at the anterior region 264 in the embodimentof FIG. 16 is approximately 15 mm.

The sides 219 of the illustrated article 200 are suitable defined bytransversely opposite side edges of the shell 214. These side edges ofthe shell 214 are contoured so that the overall width of the article 200(i.e., the distance between the transversely opposite sides 219thereof), and more particularly the width of the shell in theillustrated embodiment, is non-uniform along the length L1 of thearticle to define leg cutouts for accommodating the upper thighs of thewearer. In one suitable embodiment, the width of the article 200 andhence the shell 214 increases from a narrowest width W2 in the centralregion 265 of the article toward each of the longitudinally oppositeends (261 and 204, 204′) of the article. Still more suitably, the widthof the article 200 and more suitably the shell 214 is also greater inthe anterior region 264 of the article than in the posterior region 266.In the illustrated embodiment, for example, a greatest width W1 of thearticle 200 is defined by the transverse side edges of the shell 214adjacent the longitudinal edge of the shell (e.g., first end 261 of thearticle 200) in the anterior region 264 of the article. As additionalexamples, the greatest width W1 of the article 200 and more particularlythe shell 214 is in the range of about 52 mm to about 180 mm and moresuitably about 140 mm to about 170 mm. In the illustrated embodiment ofFIG. 16, the greatest width W1 of the article 200 is approximately 150mm. The narrowest width W2 of the article 200 and more particularly theshell 214 is in the range of about 45 mm to about 85 mm, and moresuitably about 60 mm to about 80 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, forexample, the narrowest width W2 of the shell 214 is approximately 78 mm.In other embodiments, a ratio of the length L1 of the shell 214 (andhence the article 200 in the illustrated embodiment) to the narrowestwidth W2 of the shell 214 (and hence article 200) is in the range ofabout 3 to about 1, and more suitably about 2 to about 1.

In the article 200 illustrated in FIG. 16, the sides 219 of the article200 and more particularly the transverse side edges of the shell 214 aregenerally arcuate along substantially the entire length L1 of thearticle. Alternatively, the sides 219 may be arcuate along only aportion of the length L1 of the article. It is also understood that thesides 219 defining the leg cutouts may be V-shaped, U-shaped or othersuitable shapes, or they may be uniform (e.g., straight or longitudinal)along substantially the entire length L1 of the article 200. It is alsounderstood that the sides 219 of the article may be contoured to definearticle 200 widths other than those set forth above without departingfrom the scope of this invention. It is further understood that thegreatest width of the article 200 may be other than in the anteriorregion 264, and/or the narrowest width may be other than in the centralregion 265 of the article and remain within the scope of this invention.

Still referring to FIG. 16, the contoured longitudinal edge of the shell214 (e.g., first end 261 of the article 200) at the anterior region 264,together with the contoured transverse side edges of the shell (e.g.,article sides 219) where these side edges generally intersect thelongitudinal edge of the shell, define a pair of transversely spacedtabs 220 in the anterior region. Each tab 220 has a central axis CAextending in part transversely outward of the shell 214 and in partlongitudinally outward of the shell. Each of the tabs 220 suitably hasbody adhesive 244 on the body-facing surface (e.g., first side 215) foradhering the tabs directly to the wearer and more suitably to theabdomen region of the wearer. In one particularly suitable embodiment,the tabs 220 are sized to extend to a region of the wearer that haslittle or no pubic hair to facilitate better adherence to the wearer'sskin. For example, in one embodiment each of the tabs 220 extendsoutward along its central axis CA away from the peripheral edge of theabsorbent structure 221 a distance D5 in the range of about 20 mm toabout 90 mm, and more suitably about 45 mm to about 70 mm. Each tab 220also has a transversely outermost extent (which in the illustratedembodiment defines the greatest width W1 of the shell 214 and hence thearticle 200) defining a distance D6 from the longitudinal axis of thearticle to the transversely outermost extent of a respective one of thetabs (which is approximately half of the width W1 of the shell). In aparticularly suitable embodiment, a ratio of the distance D6 (that thetab 220 extends transversely outward) to the distance D5 (the length ofthe tab along its central axis CA) is in the range of about 1 to about2. In another suitable embodiment, a ratio of the distance D6 to adistance between the longitudinal axis of the shell 214 and a side edgeof the absorbent structure 221 (i.e., about half of the width W5 shownin FIG. 21) is in the range of about 2 to about 5.

Each of the tabs 220 further has a longitudinally outermost extent(which in the illustrated embodiment defines the outermost extent of thelongitudinal edge of the shell 214) in the anterior region 264 defininga length L2 from the transverse axis of the shell 214 to thelongitudinally outermost extent of the tab 220. This length L2 issuitably in the range of about 50 mm to about 120 mm, and more suitablyabout 70 mm to about 100 mm. As illustrated in FIG. 16, the absorbentstructure 221 extends longitudinally into the anterior region 264 of thearticle and has a longitudinally outermost extent defining a length L3from the transverse axis to the longitudinally outermost extent of theabsorbent structure in the anterior region. For example, this length L3may suitably be in the range of about 30 mm to about 90 mm, and moresuitably about 50 mm to about 70 mm. In another embodiment, a ratio ofthe length L2 (the longitudinally outermost extent of the tabs 220) tothe length L3 (the longitudinally outermost extent of the absorbentstructure 221 in the anterior region 264) is in the range of about 3 toabout 1 and more suitably about 2 to about 1.

With reference now to FIG. 20, the posterior region 266 of the absorbentarticle 200 includes the opening 205 in the shell 214 with portions ofthe lateral side regions 202, 202′ broadly defining a pair oftransversely spaced tabs disposed on opposite sides of the opening. Theposterior region 266 disposition of these tabs is such that the tabs arealigned generally with the buttocks of the wearer rearward of theperineal region. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 205 is inthe form of a generally V-shaped ingress extending longitudinally on thelongitudinal axis of the article 200 such that the tabs are free to flexrelative to the central region 265 of the article and generallyindependent of each other to accommodate normal movement of the wearer'sthighs and buttocks. In one particularly suitable embodiment, theingress 205 extends longitudinally inward from the distal end 204, 204′of the absorbent article 200 (and more particularly a greatestlongitudinal extent of the shell in the posterior region 266) a distanceD2 in the range of about 5 mm to about 100 mm, and more suitably about50 mm to about 80 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, theingress 205 has a distance D2 of about 75 mm. In another embodiment, thedistance D2 of the ingress 205 is in the range of about 5 percent toabout 60 percent of the length L1 of the shell 214, and more suitablyabout 25 percent to about 40 percent of the length L1. In otherembodiments, a ratio of the distance D1 of the recess in the anteriorregion 264 of the shell 214 to the distance D2 of the ingress 205 in theposterior region 266 is in the range of about 4 to about 1, and moresuitably between about 3 and about 1. In still another embodiment, aratio of the distance D1 of the recess in the anterior region 264 of theshell 214 to the total length L1 of the shell is suitably in the rangeof about 0.03 to about 0.2 and more suitably in the range of about 0.06to about 0.09. It is understood, however, that the ingress 205 can belarger or smaller without departing from some aspects of this invention.

Turning now to FIGS. 18 and 19, the absorbent structure 221 can comprisea single layer structure or be constructed of multiple layers. Theillustrated absorbent structure 221, for example, comprises an absorbentcore 222, an intake layer 225, a top sheet 224, and a liquid impermeablebacksheet 223. A total thickness T1 of the absorbent article 200 issuitably in the range of about 1 mm to about 12 mm, and more suitablyabout 2.5 mm to about 5 mm. As one example, the thickness T1 of theillustrated absorbent article is approximately 3.5 mm. It is understood,however, that the thickness T1 may be other than as set forth abovedepending at least in part on the intended use of the absorbent article200. For example, an absorbent article 200 in which the absorbentstructure 221 is intended to be used in the manner a maxi-pad may have agreater thickness T1 than an absorbent article in which the absorbentstructure is to be used in the manner of a panty-liner. In anothersuitable embodiment, the absorbent structure 221 has a thickness T2 inthe range of about 1 mm to about 12 mm, and more suitably in the rangeof about 1.5 mm to about 5 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, forexample, the thickness T2 of the absorbent structure is approximately 3mm. The shell 214 itself may have a thickness T3 between about 0.03 mmand about 5.0 mm, and more suitably about 0.1 mm to about 3.0 mm. In oneparticularly suitable embodiment, the thickness T3 of the shell 214 isbetween 0.25 mm and about 3.0 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, forexample, the shell 214 has a thickness T3 of about 0.5 mm.

With reference now to FIG. 21, the illustrated absorbent structure 221has an upper portion 235, a middle portion 237, and a lower portion 239.The absorbent structure is generally hourglass shaped, with the upperportion 235 suitably having a width W4 between about 10 mm and about 80mm, and more suitably about 30 mm to about 60 mm. In the illustratedembodiment, for example, the width W4 of the upper portion 235 isapproximately 47 mm. The middle portion 237, which is the narrowestportion of the absorbent structure 221, may have a width W5 betweenabout 10 mm and about 80 mm, and more suitably about 30 mm to about 60mm. In the illustrated embodiment, the width W5 of the middle portion237 is approximately 40 mm. The lower portion 239 has a width W6 betweenabout 10 mm and about 120 mm, and more suitably about 40 mm to about 80mm. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the width W6 of thelower portion 239 is approximately 63 mm. In another suitableembodiment, the absorbent structure 221 has a longitudinal length L4 inthe range of about 80 mm and about 180 mm, and more suitably about 110mm to about 150 mm. As one example, the longitudinal length L4 of theillustrated absorbent structure 221 is about 145 mm. It is understood,however, that the absorbent structure may be sized in width and/orlength other than as set forth above without departing from the scope ofthis invention. It is also understood that the absorbent structure 221may be any suitable shape other than a generally hourglass shape withinthe scope of this invention.

With reference back to FIG. 16, the absorbent structure 221 is securedto the first side (i.e., body-facing surface) 215 of the shell 214, suchthat at least a portion of the absorbent structure covers the opening oringress 205 in the shell. The absorbent structure 221 may be attached tothe shell 214 in a permanent manner, meaning that the absorbentstructure is generally intended not to be removable by the wearer of theabsorbent article 200. Alternatively, it may be removably and in someembodiments refastenably) attached to the shell 214, such that theabsorbent structure 221 may be removed (and in some embodimentsreattached) by a wearer.

The shell 214 and absorbent structure 221 are sized relative to eachother such that a portion of the shell extends outward beyond theperipheral edge of the absorbent structure along at least a portion ofthe peripheral edge of the absorbent structure. In this manner, aportion of the shell 214 about the periphery of the absorbent structure221 is uncovered with the first side (i.e., body-facing surface) 215 ofthe shell exposed and available for adhesion to the wearer. For example,the shell 214 in one suitable embodiment extends outward beyond theperipheral edge of the absorbent structure 200 at least in the anteriorregion 264 and central region 265, and more suitably also in a portionof the posterior region 266. In accordance with one embodiment, forexample, the shell 214 extends outward of the peripheral edge of theabsorbent structure 221 a distance D3 in the range of at least about 3mm, more suitably in the range of about 5 mm to about 15 mm and evenmore suitably about 8 mm to about 13 mm. In one embodiment, the entirefirst side 215 of the uncovered portion of the shell 214 has bodyadhesive 244 thereon for adhering the shell and thereby the absorbentarticle to the wearer.

As illustrated in FIG. 16, the distance that the shell 214 extendsoutward beyond the peripheral edge of the absorbent structure 221 issuitably non-uniform about the periphery of the absorbent structure.More particularly, the shell 214 extends transversely outward beyondeach of the side edges of the absorbent structure 221 a greater distancein the anterior region 264 than in the central region 265. It isunderstood, however, that shell 214 may extend a uniform distanceoutward of the absorbent structure 221, or may extend outward accordingto a different pattern than illustrated in FIG. 16, and remain withinthe scope of this invention. In another suitable embodiment, the firstside (i.e., body-facing surface) 215 of the shell 214 has a totalsurface area in the range of about 50,000 mm² to about 20,000 mm², andmore suitably about 30,000 mm² to about 40,000 mm². The absorbentstructure 221 has a total body-facing surface area of about 4,500 mm² to45,000 mm² and more suitably about 15,000 mm² to about 20,000 mm². Thus,between about 10,000 mm² and about 45,000 mm², and more suitably about18,000 mm² to about 22,000 mm² of surface area of the first side 215 ofthe shell 214 remains uncovered by the absorbent structure 221. Statedanother way, about 40 percent to about 95 percent, and more suitablyabout 40 percent to about 65 percent of the shell 214 is uncovered bythe absorbent structure 221.

As one example, in the illustrated embodiment the shell 214 has a totalsurface area of about 34,000 mm² of which about 20,000 mm² is uncoveredand available to have body adhesive 244 applied thereto. The illustratedabsorbent structure 221 has a total body-facing surface area of about18,000 mm² of which about 14,500 mm² covers or overlies the shell 214.Accordingly, about 60 percent of the illustrated shell 214 has bodyadhesive 244 and can be used to adhere the absorbent article 200 to thewearer's skin. It is understood, however, that less than the entireexposed area of the shell 214 can have body adhesive 244 thereon. It isalso understood that body adhesive can be applied to the absorbentstructure 221 to adhere or partially adhere the absorbent structure tothe wearer's skin.

Additional embodiments of an absorbent article 10 of the presentspecification are illustrated in FIGS. 22 through 41. As in the previousembodiments, one component of the absorbent article 10 is a shell 14having a first side 15 and a second side 17. The shell 14 serves toprovide the overall contour or silhouette of the absorbent article ofthe present invention. In addition, the shell 14 also provides a surfacefor attachment or adhesion of the absorbent article 10 to the body of auser.

The first side 15 of the shell 14 is the body facing side of theabsorbent article 10 and the second side 17 of the shell 14 is thegarment facing side of the absorbent article. The first side 15 of theshell 14 has a first area 11 and a second area 12. The first area 11surrounds or bounds the majority of the second area 12, as is clearlyshown in FIG. 22. By “surrounds or bounds the majority”, it is meantthat at least 51% of a circumference 12C of the second area 12 contactsthe first area 11. Generally, at least 60% of the circumference 12C ofthe second area 12 contacts the first area 11. In a particularembodiment, at least 75% of the circumference 12C of the second area 12is in contact with the first area 11. In another particular embodiment,at least 90% of the circumference 12C of the second area 12 is incontact with the first area 11. In a further embodiment of the presentinvention, at least 95% of the circumference 12C of the second area 12is in contact with the first area 11. In still a further embodiment ofthe present invention, the first area 11 completely surrounds the secondarea 12 of the shell 14 as is shown in FIG. 23.

In one embodiment, the first area 11 of the first side of the shell 14is designed or adapted to contact, attach or adhere to the wearer'sskin. In one particular embodiment, the first area 11 of the shell 14 isdesigned or adapted to contact a female wearer's skin surrounding thevulva region of the female torso when the absorbent article 10 isapplied to the wearer. Generally, the shell 14 is sized and shaped suchthat the extent of the first area of the shell only contacts andattaches or adheres to the skin surrounding and proximate to the vulvaarea and possibly the pubic and perinea regions of the wearer. Inaddition to contacting the skin in the vulva, pubic and perinea regionsof the wearer, the first area 11 of the first area of the shell 14 mayalso contact and attach or adhere to any hair in the vulva area of theuser which may be present. The first area 11 is the portion of the firstside 15 of the shell 14 which holds the absorbent article in place onthe user.

Generally, the second area 12 of the shell 14 is the portion of theshell 14 which provides absorbency to the absorbent product. That is,the second area 12 of the first side to the shell is any area of thefirst side of the shell which has an absorbent structure attachedthereto, or has absorbent properties. In one particular embodiment ofthe present invention, the second area 12 of the shell 14 has anabsorbent structure 21 contained therein or attached to the shell 14 inthe second area. It is noted that the second area 12 may be a singlecontiguous area or may be two or more distinct areas. Generally, thesecond area 12 is a single contiguous area from an ease of manufacturingstandpoint. In an alternative embodiment, the second area 12 of theshell may contain an absorbent material integrated into the shell 14,such that the second area 12 of the shell is absorbent without thepresence of an additional absorbent structure. The second area 12 shellmay have an absorbent material coated or impregnated into the shellmaterial.

The shell 14 of the absorbent article 10 may be prepared from a varietyof materials. The shell may include a layer constructed of any materialwhich will function to be operatively liquid impermeable. The shell 14may, for example, include a polymeric film, a woven fabric, a nonwovenfabric or the like, as well as combinations or composites thereof. Forexample, the shell 14 may include a polymer film laminated to a woven ornonwoven fabric. A laminate shell 14 structure is shown in FIG. 25,having an upper layer 21 and a lower layer 20, wherein the upper layeris the body-facing side of the shell 14 and the lower layer is thegarment facing side of the shell 14. In a particular feature, thepolymer film can be composed of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester,silicone or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Additionally, thepolymer film may be micro-embossed, have a printed design, have aprinted message to the consumer, and/or may be at least partiallycolored. Suitably, the shell 14 can operatively permit a sufficientpassage of air and moisture vapor out of the absorbent article 10,particularly out of an absorbent structure 21 while blocking the passageof bodily fluids and odors often associated with bodily fluids. Anexample of a suitable shell material can include a breathable,microporous film, such as those described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No.6,045,900 to Haffner et al., the entire disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof. Other shellmaterials which are extensible may be used in the present invention.Examples of extensible backsheet materials are described in U.S. Pat.No. 5,611,790, issued Mar. 18, 1997, to Osborn, III et al., hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

In one particular embodiment of the present invention, the shell 14 maybe a laminate of a woven or nonwoven fabric with a silicone polymer,wherein the silicone polymer has adhesive properties. The second side 17of the shell will be woven or nonwoven fabric and the first side 15 ofthe shell will be silicone polymer. One commercially available laminateis an Oleeva Fabric® I available from Bio Med Sciences, Inc., which haveoffices at 7584 Morris Court, Suite 218 Allentown, Pa. 18106. The OleevaFabric® is a silicone sheeting having adhesive properties laminated to afabric backing. The silicone sheeting will form the body facing firstside 15 of the shell material. Relating this particular structure to theFigures, in FIG. 25, the silicone polymer is the upper layer 141 of theshell 14 and the nonwoven or woven layer is the lower layer 142 of theshell.

Bicomponent films or other multi-component films can also be used as theshell 14 material. In addition, woven and/or nonwoven fabrics which havebeen treated to render them operatively liquid-impermeable can also beused as an effective shell 14 material. Another suitable shell materialcan include a closed-cell polyolefin foam, a polyurethane polymermaterial, a silicone polymer or other similar materials. Siliconepolymers having naturally occurring adhesive properties, or siliconepolymers having a silicone adhesive layer applied thereto are ofparticular interest for the shell material. Such silicone polymers willallow the first area 11 of the shell 14 to adhere to the body of theuser without the need of an additional adhesive. These materials may belaminated to another material such that the second side 17 of the shell14, which is the garment facing side of the absorbent article 10, sothat the adhesive nature of the silicone polymer does not adhere thegarment to the undergarment of the user. In another embodiment of thepresent invention, the shell material may be prepared from aninterpenetrating polymer network or two or more polymers. Generally, oneof the polymers of the interpenetrating polymer network may be asilicone material. Examples of interpenetrating polymer networks aredescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,759,560, issued to Dillion, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

The shell material should be selected such that the overall propertiesof the shell allow the shell material to move the skin of the userduring normal use and normal movements by the user during use. The shell14 should not be too rigid, such that the shell detaches from the skinof the user during use and the shell should not be so flexible that theshell tends to twist and bunch during use. The shell 14 should havesufficient flexibility to conform to the skin of the user and becomesimilar to a second skin of the user.

Generally, the shell material should have sufficient thickness to allowthe shell 14 to mold to the body of the user, but not too thick that theshell 14 becomes uncomfortable for the user to wear. In addition, theshell 14 should not be so thin that it ineffectively forms a seal withthe skin of the user when applied to the user, or becomes detached fromthe skin of the user during use and normal movement of the user duringuse or that it does not adequately conform to the shape and skin of theuser at the point of attachment to the user. Depending on the materialused for the shell, the typical thickness of the shell is between 0.03mm and about 5.0 mm, more particularly between 0.1 mm and 3.0 mm. In oneparticular embodiment, the thickness of the shell is between 0.25 mm andabout 3.0 mm. Again, the actual thickness used is dependent of severalfactors including rigidity of the material, the flexibility of thematerial and the ability of the material to assume the shape of the skinof the user at the location of use, which is typically the vulva regionof a user.

The second side 17 of the shell 14 forms the garment-facing side of theabsorbent article when worn by a user. The shell 14 material should beselected such that the second side of the shell will freely move againstthe undergarment or clothing of a user. One way to achieve this resultis to have the second side 17 of the shell 14 to have a fairly lowcoefficient of friction. This will allow the second side 17 of the shell14 to freely move against the undergarment or other clothing worn by theuser. If the second side 17 of the shell 14 does not freely move againstthe undergarment or other clothing worn by the user, the absorbentarticle may catch on the undergarment or clothing, which may result inthe absorbent article being prematurely and undesirably removed from theuser or may cause the absorbent article to be shifted from its desiredplacement against the body of a user.

In order to achieve the desired coefficient of friction on the secondside 17 of the shell 14, the materials used to prepare the shell couldbe selected such that the second side 17 of the shell material willinherently have the desired coefficient of friction. Alternatively, thesecond side 17 of the shell 14 may be treated with a coatingcomposition, such a polytetrafluoroethylene containing coating, asilicone containing coating or other similar coating having lowcoefficient of friction properties. Alternatively, the shell 14 could bemade from a laminate of two or more materials such that the first side15 of the shell 14 is prepared from a material which meets the neededproperties of the first side 15, while the material selected for thesecond side 17 of the shell 14 meets the desired coefficient of frictionsuch that the second side 17 will freely move against the undergarmentor garment being worn by a user.

The shell 14 of the absorbent article 10 may be flat or may have athree-dimensional shape. As is shown in FIG. 26, which is a sideperspective view of the absorbent article the shell 14 has athree-dimensional concave shape. Alternatively, as is shown incross-sectional side views of FIGS. 24, 25 and 27, the shell 14 may havea generally flat shape. By providing the absorbent article 10 with athree-dimensional concave shape as is shown in FIG. 26, placement of thearticle may be easier for the user. Generally, the three-dimensionalshape could be such that it closely matches the overall generalcurvature of the vulva region and optionally the pubic and perinearegions of most women, when the absorbent article is used as apantiliner, sanitary napkin or a feminine incontinence article. To formthe shell 14 with a three-dimensional shape, the shell may be molded inany manner known to those skilled in the art, for example heat molding.The manner in which the three-dimensional shape is imparted to the shell14 is not critical to the present invention.

When the shell 14 is a flat shape, meaning that the shell does not havea third dimension other than thickness, the shell 14 should be made tobe flexible enough that the shell 14 can conform to the body of the userat the point of attachment. In addition to being flat, the overall shapeof the shell 14 may be contoured, as is shown in FIGS. 28, 23A and 23B.In one embodiment, the contour shape may be such that the narrowestpoint of the contour is in the crotch area of the shell 14 nearest thevulva region, as is shown in FIG. 29. The contour shape shown in FIG. 28is one of many possible shapes the shell 14 and absorbent article may beprepared. Other shapes may be used, without departing from the scope ofthe present invention. Generally, the shape selected should be such thatthe shell 14 and absorbent article 10 are comfortable for the user towear, while providing leakage protection to the user. It is noted that acontour shape may also be used in conjunction with a three-dimensionalshell. Further discussion of the overall shape of the absorbent articlemay be found below.

The shell may be any desired color or may be translucent. In addition,the shell may have a matte finish, satin finish or a smooth finish. Theparticular finish color or translucency can be a matter of choice forthe manufacturer of the absorbent article of the present invention.However, a translucent shell may assist the user in placing theabsorbent article 10 since the user may be able to see where the articleis compared to the genitalia of the user.

The absorbent structure 21 is designed to absorb body exudates,including menstrual fluid, blood, urine, and other bodily fluids, suchas sweat and vaginal discharges. The absorbent structure 21 has alongitudinal direction 1 and a lateral direction 2. This absorbentstructure 21 may be a single layer or may be multiple layers. Typically,the absorbent structure 21 has an absorbent core 22. This absorbent core22 may contain one or more layers of absorbent materials. That is theabsorbent core 22 may be a single layer of absorbent materials or may bea multilayer structure. Each of the layers can contain similar materialsor different materials. In the absorbent article 10 of the presentinvention, the materials which may be used to form the absorbent core 22include those materials conventionally used in absorbent articles andincludes materials, such as, for example, cellulose, wood pulp fluff,rayon, cotton, and meltblown polymers such as polyester, polypropyleneor coform. Coform is a meltblown air-formed combination of meltblownpolymers, such as polypropylene, and absorbent staple fibers, such ascellulose. A desired material is wood pulp fluff, for it is low in cost,relatively easy to form, and has good absorbency.

The absorbent core 22 can also be formed from a composite comprised of ahydrophilic material which may be formed from various natural orsynthetic fibers, wood pulp fibers, regenerated cellulose or cottonfibers, or a blend of pulp and other fibers. One particular example of amaterial which may be used as the absorbent core is an airlaid material.The absorbent core 22 may have other properties including extensibility,which will allow the absorbent core to be extended or fit to aparticular user. One example of extensible absorbent cores is describedin U.S. Pat. No. 5,611,790, issued Mar. 18, 1997, to Osborn, III et al.,herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In one embodiment, the absorbent core 22 may also include asuperabsorbent material, in addition to or in place of the hydrophilicmaterial, which increases the ability of the absorbent core to absorb alarge amount of fluid in relation to its own weight. Generally stated,the superabsorbent material can be a water-swellable, generallywater-insoluble, hydrogel-forming polymeric absorbent material, which iscapable of absorbing at least about 15, suitably about 30, and possiblyabout 60 times or more its weight in physiological saline (e.g. salinewith 0.9 wt % NaCl). The superabsorbent materials can be inserted asparticles or in sheet form. The superabsorbent material may bebiodegradable or bipolar. The hydrogel-forming polymeric absorbentmaterial may be formed from organic hydrogel-forming polymeric material,which may include natural material such as agar, pectin, and guar gum;modified natural materials such as carboxymethyl cellulose, carboxyethylcellulose, and hydroxypropyl cellulose; and synthetic hydrogel-formingpolymers. Synthetic hydrogel-forming polymers include, for example,alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylamides, polyvinylalcohol, ethylene maleic anhydride copolymers, polyvinyl ethers,polyvinyl morpholinone, polymers and copolymers of vinyl sulfonic acid,polyacrylates, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl pyridine, and the like. Othersuitable hydrogel-forming polymers include hydrolyzed acrylonitrilegrafted starch, acrylic acid grafted starch, and isobutylene maleicanhydride copolymers and mixtures thereof. The hydrogel-forming polymersmay be lightly cross-linked to render the material substantially waterinsoluble. Crosslinking may, for example, be by irradiation or covalent,ionic, Van der Waals, or hydrogen bonding. Hydroxyfunctional polymershave been found to be good superabsorbents for sanitary napkins. Suchsuperabsorbents are commercially available from Evonik Industries, amongothers, and are a partially neutralized salt of cross-linked copolymerof polyacrylic acid and polyvinyl alcohol having an absorbency underload value above 25 grams of absorbed liquid per gram of absorbentmaterial (g/g). Other types of superabsorbent materials known to thoseskilled in the art can also be used.

Generally, the absorbent core 22 will be positioned adjacent the shell14, as is shown in FIGS. 24, 25 and 27. In addition, the absorbent core22 may be recessed into the shell 14 as is shown in FIG. 27.

In addition to the absorbent core 22, the absorbent structure 21 mayhave other additional layers which aid the absorbent core 22 incapturing and holding the bodily fluid into the absorbent core 22. Theseother layers, when present and in combination with the absorbent core22, form the absorbent structure 21 of the absorbent article 10. Theremay be a single layer or multiple layers in addition to the absorbentcore in the absorbent structure 21. Alternatively, the absorbentstructure 21 may have a single layer, which is generally the absorbentcore 22.

One particular example of an additional layer which may be used inaddition to the absorbent core 22 in the absorbent structure 21 is abody-side liner or top sheet 24, which is generally a liquid permeablematerial, which allows bodily fluids to pass through the top-sheet intothe absorbent core. It is noted that the terms “body-side liner” and“top sheet” may be used interchangeable. The body side liner 24 also mayprovide a user with a dry feeling by separating the absorbent core 22from the body of the user. That is, the body-side liner 24 is placedbetween the absorbent core 22 and the body of the user and such that theabsorbent core 22 is between the body side liner 24 and the shell 14.

In the present invention, generally the body side liner 24 will onlyextend to the edge 25 of the absorbent core, as is shown in FIG. 24.However, the body side liner 24 may extend beyond the edge 25 of theabsorbent core 22 and may be attached to the first side of the shell.Generally, if the body side liner 24 extends beyond the absorbent core22, the body side liner will be attached to the first side 15 of theshell 14. Also, if the body side liner 24 extends beyond the absorbentcore 22, the body side liner 24 will generally not cover the entirefirst area 11 of the first side 15 of the shell 14.

Optionally, the body side liner 24 may be formed from one or morematerials. The body-side liner or top sheet 24 should be able to managedifferent body excretions depending on the type of product. In femininecare products, often the body-side liner or top sheet 24 must be able tohandle menses and urine. In the present invention, the body-side lineror top sheet 24 may include a layer constructed of any operativematerial, and may be a composite material. For example, the body-sideliner or body-contacting layer can include a woven fabric, a nonwovenfabric, a polymer film, a film-nonwoven fabric laminate or the like, aswell as combinations thereof. Examples of a nonwoven fabric useable inthe body-side liner or top sheet 24 include, for example, an airlaidnonwoven web, a spunbond nonwoven web, a meltblown nonwoven web, abonded-carded web, a hydroentangled nonwoven web, a spunlace web or thelike, as well as combinations thereof. Other examples of suitablematerials for constructing the body-side liner or top sheet 24 caninclude rayon, bonded-carded webs of polyester, polypropylene,polyethylene, nylon, or other heat-bondable fibers, finely perforatedfilm webs, net-like materials, and the like, as well as combinationsthereof. These webs can be prepared from polymeric materials such as,for example, polyolefins, such as polypropylene and polyethylene andcopolymers thereof, polyesters in general including aliphatic esterssuch as polylactic acid, nylon or any other heat-bondable materials.When the body-side liner is a film or a film laminate, the film shouldbe apertured or otherwise be made to allow fluids to flow through thebody-side liner to the absorbent core.

Other examples of suitable materials for the body-side liner or topsheet 24 are composite materials of a polymer and a nonwoven fabricmaterial. The composite materials are typically in the form of integralsheets generally formed by the extrusion of a polymer onto a nonwovenweb, such as a spunbond material. In a particular arrangement, thebody-side liner or top sheet layer 24 can be configured to beoperatively liquid-permeable with regard to the liquids that the articleis intended to absorb or otherwise handle. The operativeliquid-permeability may, for example, be provided by a plurality ofpores, perforations, apertures or other openings, as well ascombinations thereof, which are present or formed in the liner or bodycontacting layer. The apertures or other openings can help increase therate at which bodily liquids can move through the thickness of the lineror body contacting layer and penetrate into the other components of thearticle (e.g. into the absorbent core 22). The selected arrangement ofliquid permeability is desirably present at least on an operativeportion of the body-side liner or top sheet 24 that is appointed forplacement on the body-side of the article. The body-side liner or topsheet 24 can provide comfort and conformability, and can function todirect bodily exudates away from the body and toward the absorbent core22. The body-side liner or top sheet 24 can be configured to retainlittle or no liquid in its structure, and can be configured to provide arelatively comfortable and non-irritating surface next to the bodytissues of a wearer. In the present invention, the top sheet orbody-facing surface of each absorbent article may be embossed, printedor otherwise imparted with a pattern.

Additional layers or substrates, including for example, the liquidacquisition and distribution layer, also referred to as a surge ortransfer layer, and an optional tissue layer are also incorporated intothe absorbent structure 21 of the absorbent product 10, for example,between the body-side liner or top sheet 24 and the absorbent core 22.The distribution layer may be shorter than the absorbent core or havethe same length as the absorbent core 22. The distribution layer servesto temporarily hold an insulting fluid to allow the absorbent coresufficient time to absorb the fluid, especially when a superabsorbentmaterial is present.

In another embodiment, the absorbent core, transfer layer and othercomponents, such as tissue layers, may be free floating (unattached)between the shell 14 and the top sheet 24, and are secured along onlythe peripheral edges thereof. Alternatively, the absorbent core 22,transfer layer, if present, and any other layer or component, ifpresent, may be attached to one or both of the shell 14 and top sheet 24and/or to each other.

The absorbent structure 21, including the absorbent core, is generallyattached to the first side 15 of the shell 14 in the second area 12 ofthe shell. The attachment may be in a permanent manner, meaning that theabsorbent structure is generally intended not to be removable by theuser of the absorbent article 10. Alternatively, the absorbent structure21 may be made to be removable by the user, meaning that the absorbentstructure 21 may be removed and replaced with another absorbentstructure 21 by the user of the absorbent article 10. When the absorbentstructure 21 is attached to the shell 14 in a permanent manner, meaningthat the absorbent structure is not intended to be removed by the user,a construction adhesive may be used. Examples of useable constructionadhesives include any adhesive which will effectively hold the absorbentstructure 21 in place, so as not to be separated from the shell 14.Commercially available construction adhesives usable in the presentinvention include, for example include Rextac adhesives available fromHuntsman Polymers of Houston, Tex., as well as adhesives available fromBostik Findley, Inc., of Wauwatosa, Wis. Other means may be used to holdthe absorbent structure 21 to the shell including other bonding means,including heat bonding and ultrasonic bonding. When the absorbentstructure 21 is removably attached, the absorbent structure 21 is heldin place on the shell 14 by a means which will allow the user to removethe absorbent structure. One such means of holding the absorbentstructure is by using a pressure sensitive adhesive. Suitable pressuresensitive adhesives include any commercially available pressuresensitive adhesive. Examples of suitable pressure sensitive adhesivesusable to removably hold the absorbent structure 21 in place on theshell 14 include pressure sensitive adhesives available from NationalStarch and, having offices in, Bridgewater, N.J. 08807. By providing anabsorbent structure which is removable, the shell may be reused severaltimes without the need to again place the shell when the absorbent needsto be replaced. Also by having a removable absorbent structure, theabsorbent structure can be selected by the user prior to use. This wouldallow the user to select an appropriate level of protection for a givenday or allow the user to select a size or shape of the absorbent whichthe user finds to be more comfortable.

As is stated above, the absorbent structure 21 is located in the secondarea 12 of the shell 14 and on the first side 15 of the shell member.This size and shape of the absorbent structure may be varied dependingof the intended use of the absorbent article and will be discussed inmore detail below.

The absorbent structure 21 may have a relatively flat structure, asshown in FIGS. 24, 25, 26 and 27. Alternatively, the absorbent structuremay have a three-dimensional shape other that a relatively flat shape.The absorbent structure may have an anatomically correct shape such thatthe absorbent structure fits within the labia of the user. Anatomicallycorrect shapes of absorbent are generally known to those skilled in theart and are generally found in the interlabial art field. The absorbentstructure may be designed to be partially or fully interlabial.Alternatively, a three-dimensional shaped absorbent structure may alsobe used in the absorbent article 10 which is designed not to fit withinthe labia majora of the user. That is, the absorbent structure 21 ispositioned completely outside the labia during use. The size, locationand shape of the absorbent structure 21 may also be selected for anintended use. For example, in an overnight use, the absorbent may belocated further back on the user towards the perinea region of the user.In an overnight use, the absorbent structure may be larger than in aproduct intended for daytime use. In a daytime use, the absorbentstructure will generally be centrally located of the vulva region.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the absorbentstructure 21 is contained within the shell material. That is, theabsorbent structure 21 is an integral part of the shell 14 and aseparate absorbent structure is not present. One way to achieve anintegral absorbent structure is to have a shell which is prepared from amaterial which is a laminate of two or more materials. The first side 15of the shell 14 contains an absorbent material within the body facingside of the laminate. For example, superabsorbent particles or materialsmay be incorporated into the material making up the body facing layer ofthe laminate. Another way is to place a very light coating onto thefirst side 12 of the shell material, wherein the coating containssuperabsorbent particles or materials. Of course other absorbentmaterials, other than superabsorbent materials may be used in place ofor in addition to the superabsorbent materials.

The absorbent structure 21 may be located entirely over the shell 14, asis shown in FIGS. 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, and 28, meaning at the shell14 material is located beneath the absorbent structure 14.Alternatively, the absorbent structure 21 may be positioned over theshell 14, such that only a portion of the absorbent structure 21 is overthe shell 14. This configuration is shown in FIGS. 31, 32 and 33. FIG.31 is a bottom view and FIG. 32 is a top view of an absorbent article 10within the present invention. As can be seen only a portion of theabsorbent structure 21 is positioned over the shell 14. FIG. 33 shows across-sectional view of the absorbent article 10 taken along line 33-33in FIG. 32. As with the other embodiments of the present invention, theportion of the first side 15 of the shell 14 in which the absorbentstructure is attached is the second area 12 of the shell 14. Surroundingthe second area 12 is the first area 11 of the shell 14. The second side17 of the shell 14 is the side of the absorbent article which faces theuser during use. By having an absorbent article with the structure shownin FIG. 33, it is also beneficial for the absorbent structure to have anadditional layer 23. This additional layer will serve to provide liquidimpermeability to the absorbent structure, such that any fluids enteringthe absorbent core will not flow through the core to clothing of a user.

This additional layer 23 may be prepared from a variety of materials andis generally constructed of any material which will function to beoperatively liquid impermeable. The additional layer, may be a polymericfilm, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric or the like, as well ascombinations or composites thereof. For example, the shell 14 mayinclude a polymer film laminated to a woven or nonwoven fabric. In aparticular feature, the polymer film can be composed of polyethylene,polypropylene, polyester, silicone or the like, as well as combinationsthereof. Additionally, the polymer film may be micro-embossed, have aprinted design, have a printed message to the consumer, and/or may be atleast partially colored. Suitably, the additional layer can operativelypermit a sufficient passage of air and moisture vapor out of theabsorbent article 10, particularly out of an absorbent structure 21while blocking the passage of bodily fluids and odors often associatedwith bodily fluids. Examples of suitable materials for the additionallayer 23 include a breathable, microporous film, such as those describedin, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,045,900 to Haffner et al., the entiredisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference and made a parthereof.

As is stated above, the first area 11 of the shell 14 either directly orindirectly attaches to the body of a user. Stated another way, the shellis the body attachment member and the first area 11 is the portion ofthe shell 14 which is attached to the body of the user. Depending on thematerial selected for the shell, the shell may actively attach to thebody of the user using electrostatic means; suction means or a bodyadhesive may be placed on the first area 11 of the shell 14 to attachthe absorbent article to the body of a user. Electrostatic means whichcan be used is by selecting the shell material to be a material whichhas an affinity for the body of a user, such that the shell material“clings” to the body of the user. Examples of such materials includeethylene vinyl acetate, low density polyethylene and other similarmaterials know to those skilled in the art. Suction means may beachieved by shaping the shell to conform to the body of the user, muchlike a contact lens fits to the eye. Generally, suction means can beachieved by forming the shell 14 into a three-dimensional shape. Theeasiest way to achieve body attachment is to place a body adhesive inthe first area 11 of the shell 14.

The body adhesive 44 is positioned on the first area 11 of the firstside 15 of the shell 14. The body adhesive 44 contacts the skin andhair, if present, in the vulva region and possibly the pubic regionand/or the perinea region of the wearer's body, thereby supporting andholding the absorbent article 10 against the body of the wearer duringuse. The body adhesive 44 can overlie a portion of the first area 11 orcan overlie the entire first area 11 of the shell 14. Generally, thebody adhesive 44 will be present on a least the outer portion or nearthe circumference 11C of the first area near the edge 20 of theabsorbent article. As is shown in FIGS. 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 30, 32 and33, the adhesive may cover the entire first area 11 of the absorbentarticle. Alternatively, the body adhesive 44 may be placed on a portionof the first area 11, as is shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. The body adhesive44 may also be placed in a pattern of the first area 11. The bodyadhesive 44 can be applied to the first area 11 of the shell 14 of usingany known process including, inkjet printing, screen printing orextruding the body adhesive 44 from one or more nozzles, slot coatingand the like.

Generally, any pressure sensitive adhesive known to those skilled in theart may be used, provided that the pressure sensitive adhesive is not aknown irritant to human skin or that the adhesive is so aggressive thatit causes pain to the user when the absorbent article is removed fromthe skin. It is also desirable that the adhesive is selected such thatthe adhesive does not leave a substantial amount of an adhesive residueon the surface of the skin of the user, when the absorbent article 10 isremoved by the user after use. Particularly suitable pressure sensitiveadhesive materials are disclosed in the commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No.6,213,993 to Zacharias et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,620,143 to Zacharias etal., the entire disclosure of each is incorporated herein by referenceand made a part hereof. Other suitable adhesives are disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,618,281 to Batrabet et al., the entire disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof. Other knownbody adhesives, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,316,524 toCorzani et al. which is hereby incorporated in its entirety, may also beused. Other examples of pressure sensitive adhesives include, Hydrogels,Hydrocolloids, Acrylics based adhesives, rubber based adhesives, such asKraton based adhesives.

The body adhesive 44 may be positioned on the first area 11 of the shell14 in an open pattern or a closed pattern. By “open pattern” is meantthat the adhesive can have an intermittent or discontinuous patternwhich does not substantially encircle the entire first area 11. Forexample, there are breaks in the body adhesive at certain portions ofthe first area 11. An open pattern of adhesive is shown in FIG. 28.“Closed pattern” means the adhesive 44 would encircle the entire secondarea 12 of the shell. Preferably, the pattern of the body adhesive 44will substantially surround the absorbent structure located in or on thesecond area 12 of the shell 14. As shown in FIGS. 22, 23, 24, 25, 27,30, 31 and 33, the body adhesive 44 is applied in a closed pattern,since the entire body adhesive is applied in a continuous fashion aroundthe first area. An “open” pattern of the adhesive is shown in FIG. 34,which shows the adhesive applied in a discontinuous fashion.Additionally, the adhesive may be applied in portions of the first area11, as is shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. In the present invention, the closedpattern can be advantageous since the body adhesive 44 may form a sealwith the body of the user which will assist in preventing leaks from theabsorbent article 10. The body adhesive may form a dam, which mayprevent leaks from the entire perimeter of the absorbent article.

In one embodiment of the present invention, as is shown in FIGS. 22, 23,24, 25, 27, 30, 32 and 33, the body adhesive 44 may be placed on theentire first area 11, just outside of the absorbent structure 21. Inanother alternative embodiment of the present invention, as is shown inFIG. 28, the body adhesive 44 may be placed along the outer portions ofthe first area 11 near the periphery of the shell 14. The body adhesive44 may also be placed on the absorbent structure 21. Generally, however,the body adhesive 44 is confined to being placed on the first area 11 ofthe shell 14, since placing the body adhesive on an area of theabsorbent product 10 which contacts the female genitalia such as thelabia majora may cause discomfort to the wearer of the absorbentproduct.

The adhesive may be applied in a pattern of small discrete dots so as toleave numerous areas free from adhesive. Alternatively, the adhesive maybe applied as a continuous bead, or may be applied as a series ofsemi-continuous beads. Other suitable adhesive patterns may be selectedfor applying the body adhesive 44 to the body-contacting first area 11of the absorbent article 10. For example, adhesive patterns can be oval,swirls, various linear or non-linear arrays of adhesive longitudinally,and/or transversely oriented and reticulated webs having unobstructedinterstices between the adhesive fibers or combinations thereof. Asstated above, the adhesive patterns may be open or closed. The weightsof adhesives are limited to less than about 800 g/m2, and generally lessthan about 400 g/m2. Generally, the weight of the adhesive is at least20 g/m2. Typically, the adhesive is applied in an amount of about 100 toabout 400 g/m2. The limitations on the basis weight of the adhesive areimportant to provide the correct adhesive characteristics for applyingdirectly to the wearer's vulva region and optionally the pubic andperinea regions of the wearer's body. If the basis weight is too high,the absorbent article will have a sticky feeling or otherwiseuncomfortable feeling. If the basis weight of the adhesive is too low,there may be insufficient adhesion to the body of the user.

Generally, the body adhesive 44 is applied in a manner which issymmetrical about the longitudinal axis 1 which bisects the absorbentarticle 10 and divides the absorbent article 10 into substantially equalportions. This symmetrical pattern provides the wearer a balanced feelwhen wearing the absorbent article 10. The symmetrical pattern alsoreduces the perception of any associated discomfort when the absorbentarticle 10 is removed from the body.

As is shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, to protect the body adhesive 44, a peelsheet or release sheet 46 may be used to prevent the body adhesive 44from becoming contaminated, thus losing its ability to stick to the bodyof an user and/or prematurely adhering to an unintended surface.Suitable materials for use as a peel strip 46 are well known in the artand are commercially available. Examples of suitable peel sheets orrelease sheets include, a silicone coated Kraft paper, a silicone coatedfilm or the like. Other release coating includes coating containingpolytetrafluoroethylene. The peel sheet or release sheet 46 may extendbeyond one or both of the ends and/or sides of the shell, as shown inFIG. 36. Alternatively, the release sheet 46 may be sized to only coverthe body adhesive on the first area 11 of the shell 14, as is shown inFIG. 35. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, releasesheet may extend beyond the adhesive at one or more locations, such asone of the ends or one of the sides of the shell as is shown in FIG. 37by providing the release sheet 46 with a tab 47 for the user to grasp toremove the release sheet 46 from the absorbent article 10 and the bodyadhesive 44 on the absorbent article. When the release sheet 46 extendsbeyond the adhesive, it is generally easier for the user to remove therelease sheet 46 to place the absorbent article 10 for use.

Alternatively, the release sheet 46 may be provided with a pressuresensitive adhesive to hold the release sheet 46 in place when theabsorbent article is devoid of an adhesive for body attachment. In thisconfiguration, the release sheet serves to protect the absorbentstructure and first side of the shell from dirt and damage prior to use.

In another alternative, a release sheet may not be necessary. Forexample, the absorbent article may be rolled, folded onto itself orstacked upon each other. In these configurations, a release sheet is notneeded. If rolled, the body adhesive 44 will generally contact thesecond side 17 of the shell 14. The body adhesive 44 should releasablystick to one second side of the shell by readily releasing when unrolledby the user or wearer. In addition, the body adhesive 44 should notleave a residue on the second side 17 of the shell. This shouldsimilarly occur when the absorbent articles 10 are stacked upon eachother such that the body adhesive 44 of one article will attach thesecond side of the shell of a second article. In another possibleconfiguration, the absorbent article may 10 be folded along thelongitudinal axis 1 of the lateral axis such that the body adhesive 44in one area comes into contact with body adhesive in another area. Inthe folded configuration, the body adhesive should be selected such thatthe body adhesive will release from itself when manipulated by a user.

The dimensions and shape of the shell 14 should be such that it isappropriately sized for its intended use. The same is true for the sizeand shape of the absorbent structure. Generally, the size and shape ofthe absorbent structure 21 will dictate the size of the shell 14. Theshape of the shell 14 is selected so that the absorbent article willhave a comfortable feeling for the user, which providing protectionagainst leaks and preventing the absorbent article from becomingdislodged from the body of the user during user. Generally, the shellwill be curved to fit the body of a user. The shell 14 also generallygives the absorbent article 10 its overall size and shape in thelongitudinal 1 and lateral 2 directions.

When the absorbent article is intended for use as a pantiliner, asanitary napkin or a feminine incontinence article, the shell 14 shouldbe wider and longer than the absorbent structure 21 attached to thesecond area 12 of the shell 14. The absorbent structure should be atleast as wide and as long as the labia majora of the user. As a result,to fit most women, the absorbent structure is longer in the longitudinaldirection than it is wide in the lateral direction of the absorbentstructure. Generally, for most women, the labia majora are generallybetween about 40 mm and about 70 mm in width and between about 80 mm and150 mm in length. Ideally, the absorbent structure should be wider thanthe labia majora and slightly longer than the labia minora and slightlylonger than or equal to the labia majora. Generally, the absorbentshould be between about 40 mm and 90 mm in width in the lateraldirection and between about 95 mm and about 150 mm in length thelongitudinal direction. The shape of the absorbent structure 21 willgenerally tend to be oblong and may be an oval, a rectangle, tear dropshaped, hourglass shaped or racetrack shaped. As can be seen in FIGS.22, 28, 29, 32, 34 and 38, the absorbent structure 21 has a generallyelliptical or oval shape to match the size and shape of the vaginal areaof most women. An example of a teardrop shaped absorbent is shown inFIG. 22.

Generally, the shape of the shell 14 may vary from a generally ovalshape, as shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 to a shape which is a generallyhourglass-like shape, shown in FIG. 29. By generally hourglass shape, itis meant a shape in which the sides 19 of the shell 14 converge towardsone another at a point away along the longitudinal axis 1 of the shell14 to form a narrowest portion 33 of the absorbent article. Generally,the hourglass-like shape provides a cut-out for the user's legs. Byhaving an hourglass-like shape, the shell 14 will not be attached to thelegs of a user during use. This will provide more comfort for the userof the absorbent article 10. The shape of the shell 14 should beselected such that the absorbent article 10 will be comfortable to wear,while providing very effective leakage protection to the user. The shell14 and the absorbent structure 21 should be able to adapt to thecurvature of a user's body during use. Other possible shapes for theshell 14 are also shown in FIGS. 28, 29, 30, and 31. Other shapes notspecifically shown may also be used, provided that the shape willprovide comfort to the user of the absorbent article.

To obtain an effective attachment of the absorbent article to the user,when the absorbent article is used as a sanitary napkin or anincontinence article, generally the width of the shell should be atleast 10 mm on either side of the labia majora. Generally, the shell 14of the absorbent article 10 will have a width, in the lateral direction2, between about 50 mm up to 200 mm or more. Typically, the shell willbe between about 60 and 120 mm at its narrowest point. This will allowthe shell 14 to have a first area 11 that can be effectively attached tothe skin of a user on either side of the labia majora.

In addition, the absorbent article 10 may also be configured to have ananterior region 64, a central region 65 and a posterior region 66, as isshown in FIG. 38. A particular embodiment is shown in FIG. 35 of anabsorbent article having a configuration designed to fit specific areasof the vulva region of a user. By providing specific portions forattachment to specific areas of the body of the user, the absorbentarticle may be configured to better fit the body of the user. Theanterior region 64 of the absorbent article will be the portion of theabsorbent article between the absorbent structure 21 and the first end61 of the absorbent article 10. The posterior region 66 of the absorbentarticle 10 will be the portion of the absorbent article between theabsorbent structure 21 and the second end 62 of the absorbent article10. Generally, the posterior region 66 will be designed to be placedbetween the vagina area and the anal area of the user. The anteriorregion 64 is designed to be placed on the mons Veneris region of afemale user. The central region 65 of the absorbent article 10 isdesigned to cover the vagina area of the user and the skin area surroundthe lateral sides of the labia majora, when the absorbent article isused as a pantiliner, sanitary napkin or an incontinence article. In analternative use, the absorbent article of the present invention may alsobe used as an underwear replacement, or a guard for a swimming suit.

To obtain an effective attachment to the body of the user, the shell 14can be configured to be anatomically correct for a user. As is shown inFIGS. 38 and 39, the shape of the absorbent article 10 is such that itwill correctly and securely fit in the vulva region of a user. Thegeneral shape of the absorbent article shown in FIG. 39 has been foundto effectively attach to the vulva region of female users of theabsorbent article. Additional features may be included to ensure ananatomically correct shape. For example, in the posterior region of theabsorbent article 10, more particularly, the posterior region of theshell on the first side 15, the shell 14 may be imparted with athree-dimensional protrusion 67, as shown in FIGS. 38 and 39. Theprotrusion 67 acts to fit comfortably in the perinea region of the user.The protrusion 67 may be formed from the shell material of may be formedfrom the body adhesive 44. By providing the three-dimensional protrusion67, the absorbent article can effectively fit to the typical body shapeof the female user, thereby preventing leaks form the posterior regionof the absorbent article. The protrusion 67 may also serve as a guide tothe user in placement of the absorbent article 10 on the body prior touse.

The absorbent article of the present invention may have other featureswhich aid the user to place and remove the absorbent article from thebody. As is shown in FIGS. 40 and 41, the second side 12 of the shell 14may be provided with positioning aids, such as a finger pocket 99, orfinger grooves in the shell material. The finger pocket 99 has anopening 98 toward the anterior region 64 or first end 61 of theabsorbent article 10. The pocket 99 gives the user a location to placeher fingers during placement of the absorbent article 10 onto the user'sbody. The pocket 99 may be an opening wide enough for the user to placeat least two fingers in the pocket. Alternatively, there may be two ormore openings which allow the user to place only one finger in eachopening. Other similar positioning aids may be used to help guide a userto properly place the absorbent article for use. For example, groovesmay be placed in the second side 12 of the shell 14 opposite theabsorbent structure. This may allow the user to feel the location of theabsorbent structure relative to the vulva region during application ofthe absorbent article 10 to the vulva region of the body. The pocket 99may also assist the user in removing the absorbent article from theirbody.

The absorbent article 10 may also be provided with a removal aid whichprovides the user with an easy way to grasp and remove the absorbentarticle applied to the body. One particular removal aid is shown in FIG.41 including a tab 92 located on the first end 61 of the shell which isnot adhered to the body or is devoid of adhesive. Alternatively, otherremoval aids, such as having an area of the first end 61 being devoid ofthe body attaching adhesive 44. Other types of removal aid which may bepresent include loops, and pull strings. The removal aid allows the userto effectively begin the process of gentling removing the absorbentarticle from the body of the user, without the need of having to find aportion of the shell which may not be completely attached.

Other features or additives may be incorporated into the absorbentarticle of the present invention. For example, the absorbent article maycontain an odor control agent, or a fragrance, skin wellness agents andother similar additives currently used in currently available absorbentarticles. Any odor control agent or, fragrance known to those skilled inthe art may be used in the absorbent article of the present invention.The odor control agent or fragrance may be added in various componentsof the absorbent article, including the shell 14, the absorbentstructure 21 of the body adhesive 44. Skin wellness additives may beadded onto the absorbent structure, any portion of the first area 15 ofthe shell not attached to the user or in the body adhesive 44.

Generally, to apply the absorbent article 10 to the body of a user, therelease sheet 46, protecting the absorbent structure and adhesive, ifpresent, is removed from first surface of the shell. Next, the userpositions the absorbent structure of the portion of the body in whichabsorbency is needed. If positioning pockets or other positioning aidsare present on the absorbent structure, the user may optionally usethese positioning aids to properly place the absorbent article for use.In the case of sanitary napkins and incontinence absorbent articles forfemales, the absorbent is positioned over the vagina area such that theabsorbent structure will absorb body fluids. The user then checks toensure that the first area 11 of the shell or the adhesive 44, ifpresent, is contacting the skin around the vagina area.

If the absorbent article is intended to have a front and a back portion,the user first identifies the anterior region 64 and/or the posteriorregion 66 of the absorbent article. To aid in identification of theanterior and posterior regions, indicia located on the release sheet,shell or absorbent to indicate the anterior region and/or posteriorregion of the absorbent article may be present. Indicia can be simplylettering or a picture to indicate the front or back of the absorbentarticle. Once anterior region and posterior region are identified by theuser, the user places the absorbent article in the same manner describedabove.

In each case, the absorbent structure, which is designed to cover thelabia majora of the user, may be positioned with the aid of theabsorbent structure. More specifically, the absorbent structure, whensized and shaped to the approximate size of the labia majora, can serveto guide the placement of the absorbent structure over the labia majora.Once properly placed, pressure is applied by the user to the secondsurface of the shell which will allow the first surface of the shell tocontact the skin of the user, or to allow any adhesive applied to thefirst surface to be applied to the skin of the user.

By having the absorbent article 10 attached to the body of a user, theabsorbent article 10 will tend to move with the skin of the user. Thisresults in a comfortable to wear absorbent article which will be lesslikely to leak than conventional absorbent articles. The absorbentarticle has a very close to the body fit which may provide improveddiscretion for the user.

Other benefits of the absorbent article 10 of the present invention mayalso be provided. For example, when the first side of the shell has anadhesive applied thereto, upon removal of the absorbent article afteruser, the user may fold the first side of the shell onto itself todispose of the used absorbent article. An effective seal may be formedaround the perimeter of the shell, thereby effectively encapsulating theabsorbent structure within a closure. As a result, any odors associatedwith the absorbed fluids will be contained within the shell material.

FIGS. 42-44 illustrate one suitable embodiment for packaging any of theabsorbent articles described above, e.g., the absorbent article 200 ofFIG. 14. As illustrated, the absorbent article 200 can be placed in apackaged configuration suitable for packaging, stowing, or transportingthe absorbent article. In the packaged configuration of this embodiment,the absorbent article 200 is rolled up onto itself. More particularly,in the illustrated configuration, the absorbent article 200 is rolledstarting at its first end 261 and ending with its distal end 204′, 204.As a result, the first end 261 is disposed in the center of packagedconfiguration and the distal end 204′, 204 is disposed on the exteriorthereby making the distal end accessible to the wearer. In thisconfiguration, the body adhesive 244 applied to the first side 215 ofthe shell 214 is used to hold the absorbent article 200 in its packagedconfiguration. It is understood that the absorbent article 200 can berolled in the opposite direction. That is, the absorbent article 200 canbe rolled starting with the distal end 204, 204′ and ending with thefirst end 261.

A closure in the form of an adhesive tab 1001 is also used to secure theabsorbent article 200 in its packaged configuration. In addition, thetab 1001 provides a grip for gripping by the wearer to unroll theabsorbent article as described in greater detail below. It isunderstood, however, that any suitable closure can be used (e.g., hookand loop, snaps, adhesive tape, rubber band) or that the closure can beomitted.

In another suitable embodiment, the absorbent article 200 can include apeel sheet (such as peel strip 146 illustrated in FIG. 8) and rolled toa packaged configuration similar to that of the embodiment illustratedin FIG. 42. In this embodiment, the absorbent article 200 can be held inthe packaged configuration by any suitable closure, such as the tab 1001illustrated in FIG. 42 or other suitable means.

In its packaged configuration, the absorbent article 200 can be wrappedindividually, as illustrated in FIG. 45, or along with a plurality ofabsorbent articles 200. As illustrated in FIG. 45, the absorbent article200 can be placed individually into a frangible wrapper, indicatedgenerally at 1003. The illustrated wrapper 1003 suitably has a frontpanel 1005 and a back panel 1007 sealingly engaged with the front panelto define an interior space 1009 sized and shaped for receiving theabsorbent article 200 in its packaged configuration. Thus, the wrappedabsorbent article 200 can be carried as a single unit by the user (e.g.,in a purse, backpack, or a pocket) in a sealed, hygienic condition.

The wrapper 1003 can be selectively opened to permit removal of theabsorbent article 200 from the wrapper by the wearer. In one example,the wearer can tear the wrapper opening. Notches or cuts can be providedto assist the wearer in tearing the wrapper. In another example, thewrapper 1003 can be provided with a line of weakness (not shown) formedthereon to provide a path along which the wrapper is more readily tornto open the wrapper. The line of weakness can suitably comprises aplurality of aligned perforations, a plurality of separation points, ascore line, a breakaway line or areas, a chain stitch, a thinning of thewrapper material or other suitable line of weakness. The line ofweakness may be suitably formed by partial pressure cutting, partialultrasonic cutting, partial thermal deformation, mechanical thinning, orother suitable techniques.

The wrapper 1003 may suitably be formed from woven material, non-wovenmaterial, films, laminates, or a combination thereof. For example, inone suitable embodiment, the wrapper 1003 may be made of paper,polyethylene, polypropylene, oriented polypropylene materials, or thelike. Suitable examples include, without limitation, a low densitypolyethylene (LDPE) film; a LDPE/LLDPE (linear low density polyethylene)film laminate; a LDPE/MDPE (medium density polyethylene) film laminate;and a LDPE/HDPE (high density polyethylene) film laminate or the like.One particular material suitable for making the wrapper 1003 isavailable from Pliant Corporation under the tradename XP3-999-1459.0.

In another suitable embodiment, which is illustrated in FIGS. 46 and 47,the absorbent article 200 can be rolled to its packaged configurationabout a cylindrical member and, more specifically, a tube, indicatedgenerally at 1011. In the illustrated configuration, the tube 1011includes bulbous ends 1013 and a recessed center portion 1015 disposedbetween the ends. The absorbent article 200 is rolled about the recessedcenter portion. The tube 1011 can be made from any suitable material,e.g., cardboard, plastic. It is understood that the tube 1011 can haveother configurations (i.e., cylindrical) than that illustrated anddescribed herein.

In one suitable embodiment, the tube 1011 defines an interior chamber1017, which can be used to stow one or more other products, for example,a tampon and tampon applicator assembly 1019 as illustrated in FIGS. 48and 49. Additional products including a wipe, a glove, a cleansinglotion, a disposal bag, and a cleansing pillow can be stow with orinstead of the tampon and tampon applicator assembly 1019. One or bothof the ends 1013 of the tube 1011 may include a suitable closure, suchas a foil or plastic cover (not shown), for enclosing the interiorchamber 1017 of the tube and thereby any products stored within thetube. It is contemplated that the tube can be permeable or impermeable.It is also contemplated that the tube may contain a liner (not shown),which may or may not be removeable.

In still another embodiment, the absorbent article 200 can be rolled toits packaged configuration about one or more products. For example, asillustrated in FIG. 50, the article 200 can be rolled up directly aroundthe tampon and tampon applicator assembly 1019. It is understood thatthe article 200 can be rolled directly around one or more other productsincluding, without limitation, a wipe, a glove, a cleansing lotion, adisposal bag and a cleansing pillow. It is also understood that theproducts about which the absorbent article 200 is rolled can be wrappedor unwrapped.

Besides being rolled, the absorbent article 200 can also be folded to apackaged configuration as illustrated in FIGS. 51-54. In one suitableembodiment, the absorbent article 200 is folded generally in half aboutthe transverse axis of the absorbent article. In another suitableembodiment, which is illustrated in FIG. 55, the absorbent article 200is folded in generally Z-fold. It is understood that the absorbentarticle 200 can be folded in any suitable manner, e.g., a W-fold.

As previously mentioned, other products including, without limitation, awipe, a glove, a cleansing lotion, a disposal bag and a cleansing pillowcan be provided in combination with the absorbent article 200. In onesuitable embodiment, the product can be placed between the absorbentarticle 200 in its folded configuration. For example, a tampon andtampon assembly 1019 (or any other suitable product) can be disposed ina pocket 1025 formed by folding the absorbent article as illustrated inFIG. 56. It is contemplated that the absorbent article 200 and the otherproduct(s) can have other relative arrangements (e.g., the product canbe placed on top of, beneath, adjacent the absorbent article). Theproducts can be individually wrapped, unwrapped, or separated from theabsorbent article 200 using a suitable barrier.

It is contemplated that the article 200 can be held in its foldedpackaged configuration using the body adhesive 244 of the article orusing a suitable closure, such as, an adhesive tab 1021. It isunderstood that the article may also include a peel sheet 246 asillustrated in FIG. 56. As seen in FIG. 54, the article 200 can beplaced in a wrapper 1023 in its packaged configuration. The wrapper 1023of FIG. 54 is substantially the same the wrapper 1003 of FIG. 45 varyingonly in size and shape.

In another packaged configuration, which is illustrated in FIG. 57, theabsorbent article 200 is generally flat and sealed within a wrapper,indicated generally at 1033. In one suitable embodiment, the wrapper1033 includes in upper layer 1035 for overlying the absorbent articleand a bottom layer 1037 for underlying the absorbent article. In theillustrated configuration, longitudinal sides of the wrapper 1033 areopen thereby not fully enclosing the absorbent article 200. It isunderstood, however, that the wrapper 1033 can be sealed along itslongitudinal sides to fully enclosing the absorbent article 200.

In one suitable embodiment of use, the wearer removes the absorbentarticle 200 from a sealed or partially sealed wrapper by tearing orotherwise opening the wrapper. It is understood that the absorbentarticle 200 can be provided to the wearer in an unwrapped configuration.Once unwrapped, the wearer converts the absorbent article 200 from apackaged configuration to a use configuration, as illustrated in FIG.14. The absorbent article 200 can be converted by unrolling or unfoldingthe absorbent article depending on the specific package configuration ofthe article. As mentioned above, the absorbent article 200 can be rolledabout itself, about a tube, or about another product (e.g., a tampon, awipe, a glove, a cleansing lotion a disposal bag, and a cleansingpillow) in the packaged configuration. Thus, in these embodiments, theabsorbent article 200 is converted from the packaged configuration tothe use configuration by unrolling the absorbent article. As alsomentioned above, the absorbent article 200 can be folded in half,z-folded, or W-folded in its packaged configuration. In theseembodiments, the absorbent article 200 is converted from the packagedconfiguration to the use configuration by unfolding the absorbentarticle.

The wearer can apply the absorbent article 200 by adhering the posteriorregion 266 of the absorbent article to the gluteal region of the wearer,the central region 265 of the absorbent article adjacent the wearer'svaginal region, and the anterior region 264 of the article 200 adjacentthe wearer's lower abdomen region using the body adhesive 244 located onthe shell 214. If the absorbent article 200 includes a peel sheet (e.g.,peel sheet 246 of FIG. 56), the wearer removes the peel sheet beforeadhering the absorbent article in place. In one suitable embodiment, thepeal strip 246 has a rigidity that is greater than the rigidity of theshell 214 to provide a greater degree of stiffness to the absorbentarticle 200. The increase in stiffness improves the handling propertiesof the absorbent article 200.

It is contemplated that the absorbent article 200 can be convertedbetween the packaged configuration and the use configuration before orsimultaneously with the applying step. For example, as illustrated inFIGS. 58-60, the distal end 204, 204′ of the absorbent article 200 canbe released from the tube 1011 by the wearer using the adhesive tab 1001(FIG. 58). The wearer can then adhere the distal end 204, 204′ to hergluteal region. With the distal end 204, 204′ secured to the wearer, thewearer unrolls the absorbent article 200 from the tube 1001 whileadhering the absorbent article to herself using the body adhesive 244.The central region 265 of the absorbent article 200 is unrolled next andadhere to the wearer adjacent her vaginal region. That is, the centralregion is adhered between the wearer's upper thighs. Next, the anteriorregion of the absorbent article 200 is unrolled and adhered adjacent thewearer's lower abdomen.

In the illustrated embodiment, the anterior region of the article 200 isadhered to the wearer after the central region and the posterior regionof the absorbent article. It is understood, however, that the absorbentarticle 200 can be applied to the wearer in the opposite direction. Inother words, the anterior region of the absorbent article 200 can beapplied first and the posterior region last.

The absorbent article 200 can be removed by pulling the article awayfrom her body thereby releasing the body adhesive 244. It iscontemplated that the absorbent article 200 can be refolded or re-rolledto its packaged configuration after use to thereby place the article insuitable form for disposal.

FIG. 61 illustrates another embodiment of a body adhesive absorbentarticle 300 comprising a shell 314 and an absorbent structure 321. Theshell 314 has a first region 301 and an elongate region 302 extendingfrom the first region. The shell 314 also has a first side 315, whichdefines a body-facing surface (FIG. 61), and a second side, whichdefines a garment-facing surface (not shown). In the illustratedembodiment, the first side 315 of the shell 314 has a body adhesive 344on at least a portion thereof for adhering the absorbent article 300directly to the wearer's skin, and particularly, to a female wearer'sskin surrounding her vulva region for the illustrated absorbent article.The body adhesive 344 contacts the skin and hair, if present, in thevulva region and possibly the pubic region and/or the perinea region ofthe wearer's body, thereby supporting and holding the shell 314 and theabsorbent structure 321 against the body of the wearer during use.

In the illustrated embodiment, the shell 314 contains adhesive 344 inonly a portion of the first region 301 and in only a portion of theelongate region. It is understood that the entire exposed area (i.e.,the area not covered by the absorbent structure 321) or other portionsof the exposed area of the first side 315 of the shell 314 can haveadhesive 344 thereon without departing from the scope of this invention.A releasable peel sheet or release sheet (not shown in FIG. 61) may beused to prevent the body adhesive 344 from becoming contaminated, thuslosing its ability to stick to the body of the wearer and/or prematurelyadhering to an unintended surface. The absorbent structure 321 issuitably secured to the first side (i.e., body-facing surface) 315 ofthe shell 314 and is sized and located relative to the shell such thatthe shell extends longitudinally outward beyond the periphery of theabsorbent structure.

A first end 361 of the absorbent article 300 is suitably contoured alongthe width of the shell at the first end to accommodate the lower abdomenregion of the wearer. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, thelongitudinal extent (e.g., length) of the shell 314 relative to thetransverse axis of the article is non-uniform across the width of theshell at the first end 361 of the article 300, and more suitablyincreases as the shell extends transversely outward from thelongitudinal axis of the article to transversely, or laterally oppositesides 319 of the article and more particularly laterally opposite sideedges of the shell. Accordingly, a greatest longitudinal extent of theshell 314 is generally adjacent the intersection of the longitudinal end361 with the respective sides 319 of the article (i.e., the shell in theembodiment of FIG. 61). More suitably, the longitudinal edge of theshell 314 (i.e., at first end 361 of article 30 in the illustratedembodiment) is generally V-shaped as it extends across the width of theshell at its longitudinal edge. It is understood, however, that thecontour of the longitudinal edge of the shell 314 may be arcuate,U-shaped or other suitable shape without departing from the scope ofthis invention.

In the article 300 illustrated in FIG. 61, the sides 319 of the article300 and more particularly the transverse side edges of the shell 314 aregenerally arcuate along substantially the entire length of the article.Alternatively, the sides 319 may be arcuate along only a portion of thelength of the article. It is also understood that the sides 319 definingthe leg cutouts may be V-shaped, U-shaped or other suitable shape, or itmay be uniform (e.g., straight or longitudinal) along substantially theentire length of the article 300.

The contoured longitudinal edge of the shell 314 (e.g., first end 361 ofthe article 300) together with the contoured transverse side edges ofthe shell (e.g., article sides 319) where these side edges generallyintersect the longitudinal edge of the shell, define a pair oftransversely spaced tabs 320. Each of the tabs 320 suitably has bodyadhesive 344 on the body-facing surface (e.g., first side 315) foradhering the tabs directly to the wearer and more suitably to theabdomen region of the wearer. In one particularly suitable embodiment,the tabs 320 are sized to extend to a region of the wearer that haslittle or no pubic hair to facilitate better adherence to the wearer'sskin.

The elongate portion 302 of the shell 314 includes a tab 302′ forgenerally aligning with the coccyx of the wearer. The tab 302′ hasadhesive thereon for adhering the shell 314 to the body of the wearer.The tab 302′ of the illustrated embodiment is generally bulbous in shapebut it is understood that the tab could have other shapes.

FIGS. 62-67 illustrate one suitable embodiment for packaging any of theabsorbent articles described above, e.g., the absorbent article 300 ofFIG. 61. It is understood, however, that other suitable absorbentarticles besides those described herein can also be packaged in asimilar manner. FIG. 62 illustrates the absorbent article 300 in agenerally flat configuration. A releasable peel sheet 346 covers theadhesive on the tab 302′ of the elongate region 302 and a wrapper,indicated generally at 2003, covers the adhesive on the first region 302of the article. As illustrated in FIG. 62, the wrapper 2003 comprises agenerally rectangular sheet having a folded edge 2004. The wrapper 2003extends outward beyond the first edge 361 of the article 300 so thatboth the wrapper and the absorbent article 300 are generally flat. Inanother suitable embodiment, the wrapper 2003 comprises a generallyrectangular sheet, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 62, except thatthe folded edge 2004 is omitted.

As seen in FIG. 63, the elongate region 302 of the article 300 is foldedlongitudinally about a transverse fold line adjacent the periphery ofthe absorbent structure 321 so that the tab 302′ of the elongate regionlies on top of the absorbent structure 231. As illustrated, the foldline is a general longitudinal location along which the article isfolded. A crease or other configuration that facilitates the folding ordemarcates at the longitudinal location may or may not be present on thearticle 300. Next, the absorbent article 300 is folded longitudinallyagain about another transverse fold line so that the absorbent articleis approximately in fourths (FIG. 64). This time, both the shell 314 andthe absorbent structure 321 are folded. As seen in FIG. 64, a portion ofthe absorbent article 300 is disposed on both sides (e.g., a frontsurface and a back surface) of the wrapper 2003. That is, the absorbentarticle 300 captures a portion of the wrapper 2003, including a portionof the folded edge 2004, between its folds. As illustrated in FIG. 65,the absorbent article 300 is rolled up so that it overlies the wrapper2003.

The wrapper 2003 is then rolled about the absorbent article 300 so thatthe article is enclosed within the wrapper, as seen in FIGS. 66 and 67.FIGS. 66 and 67 illustrate the absorbent article 300 in its packagedconfiguration. It is understood that the absorbent article 300 can berolled up along its entire length instead of folded along a portion ofits length and then rolled the reminder of its length. It is alsounderstood that the absorbent article 300 can be folded a fewer numberof times, such as only once as illustrated in FIGS. 91-96, before beingrolled up.

As illustrated in FIGS. 66 and 67, the wrapper 2003 includes a releasetab 2005 adapted for grasping by the user to facilitate unwrapping ofthe absorbent article 300. It is contemplated that the release tab 2005can have other shapes and sizes. It is also contemplated that therelease tab 2005 can be omitted. A closure (not shown) can be used tosecure the absorbent article 300 in the packaged configuration. It isunderstood that any suitable closure can be used (e.g., hook and loop,snaps, adhesive tape, rubber band, string). The closure can also becreated by twisting the ends of the wrapper 2003 closed or sealing theends of the wrapper closed (e.g., heat sealing).

The wrapper 2003 may suitably be formed from woven material, non-wovenmaterial, films, laminates, or a combination thereof. For example, inone suitable embodiment, the wrapper 2003 may be made of paper,polyethylene, polypropylene, oriented polypropylene materials, or thelike. Suitable examples include, without limitation, a low densitypolyethylene (LDPE) film; a LDPE/LLDPE (linear low density polyethylene)film laminate; a LDPE/MDPE (medium density polyethylene) film laminate;and a LDPE/HDPE (high density polyethylene) film laminate or the like.One particular material suitable for making the wrapper 1003 isavailable from Pliant Corporation under the tradename XP3-999-1459.0.

In one suitable embodiment, the wrapper 2003 is formed as one-piece witha releasable peel sheet for releasably engaging the adhesive 344 locatedin the first region 301 of the absorbent article 300. It is contemplatedthat releasable peel sheet and the wrapper 2003 can be formedseparately. It is also contemplated that the wrapper 2003 can beomitted. In other words, the absorbent article 300 can be provided inits packaged configuration without any wrapper.

In an alternative embodiment, the absorbent article 300 may be folded toa packaged configuration as illustrated in FIGS. 68-72. For example, theabsorbent article 300 can be accordion folded to a generally compactconfiguration. In other words, the absorbent article 300 can be foldedlongitudinally about a plurality of transverse fold lines. FIG. 69illustrates the absorbent article 300 in the process of being accordionfolded and FIG. 70 illustrates the article after the accordion foldinghas been completed. Once the article 300 is suitably folded to itspackaged configuration (as seen in FIG. 70), the wrapper 2003 can berolled or folded about the article to enclose the absorbent article(FIGS. 71 and 72). It is understood that the absorbent article 300 canbe folded in any suitable manner, e.g., a W-fold, a Z-fold.

In another suitable embodiment, the absorbent article 300 may betri-folded to a packaged configuration as illustrated in FIGS. 73-78. Inthis embodiment, the absorbent article 300 is folded longitudinally atthree different transverse fold lines with each of the fold lines beingapproximately evenly spaced from each other. FIG. 74 illustrates thearticle 300 being folded about a first transverse fold line, FIG. 75illustrates the article 300 being folded about a second transverse foldline, and FIG. 76 illustrates the article 300 being folded about a thirdtransverse fold line. The absorbent article 300 is seen in its packagedconfiguration in FIG. 77. In its packaged configuration, the absorbentarticle 300 captures a portion of the wrapper 2003. The wrapper 2003 canbe used to enclose the absorbent article 300 as seen in FIGS. 77 and 78.

In yet another suitable embodiment, the absorbent article 300 can beplaced on the wrapper 3002 and can be folded along with the wrapper to apackaged configuration wherein the absorbent article is enclosed by thewrapper as seen in FIGS. 79-84. In FIG. 80, the article 300 is beingshown folded about a transverse fold line so that the elongate portion302 is folded beneath the absorbent structure 321. As seen in FIGS. 81and 82, the absorbent article 300 and wrapper 3002 can be foldedsimultaneously. FIGS. 83 and 84 illustrate the absorbent article 300 inits packaged configuration and enclosed within the wrapper 3002.

In still yet another suitable embodiment, which is illustrated in FIGS.85-89, the absorbent article 300 is folded longitudinally about a pairof transverse fold lines (a first fold line is seen in FIG. 86 and asecond fold line is seen in FIG. 87) of the absorbent article. Theabsorbent article 300 is then folded transversely about a longitudinalfold line that is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the absorbentarticle, which is illustrated in FIG. 88, to its packaged configuration.In the illustrated embodiment, the wrapper 2003 is folded along withabsorbent article 300 to enclose the article within the wrapper (FIG.89).

FIG. 90 illustrates the absorbent article 300 in its use configurationafter being folded in the manner illustrated in FIGS. 85-89. As seen,the absorbent structure 321 of the absorbent article 300 has a generallyconcave portion in its anterior region and a generally convex portion inits posterior region. The packaged configuration illustrated in FIGS.85-89 facilitates forming both the concave portion and the convexportion of the absorbent structure 321.

It is understood that other suitable absorbent articles, includingabsorbent articles 500, 600, 700 illustrated in FIGS. 97-102, can bepackaged in any of the packaged configurations described and illustratedabove.

FIG. 103 illustrates another embodiment of a body adhesive absorbentarticle 800 comprising a shell 814 and an absorbent structure 321. Theshell 814 has a first side 815, which defines a body-facing surface, anda second side, which defines a garment-facing surface (not shown). Theshell 814 also has a first longitudinal end 861, a pair of tabs 802,802′ spaced from the first longitudinal end, and a pair of lateral sides819. In the illustrated embodiment, the first side 815 of the shell 814has a body adhesive 844 on at least a portion thereof for adhering theabsorbent article 800 directly to the wearer's skin, and particularly,to a female wearer's skin surrounding her vulva region for theillustrated absorbent article. More specifically, the illustratedembodiment has body adhesive 844 extending adjacent the entire length ofeach of the lateral sides 819 of the shell 814.

As seen in FIG. 103, the adhesive 844 adjacent one of the lateral sides819 of the shell 814 (broadly, “a first region”) is generally a mirrorimage of the adhesive adjacent the other lateral side of the shell(broadly, “a second region”). As a result, the illustrated absorbentarticle 800 can be folded to a packaged configuration by folding thearticle generally in half about a fold line that is generally coaxialwith either the transverse axis (as illustrated in FIG. 104) or thelongitudinal axis (not shown) of the article. In either configurations(i.e., folded longitudinally or transversely), the adhesive 844 adjacentone of the lateral sides 819 is folded in generally overlapping with theadhesive adjacent the other lateral side to maintain the article 800 inthe packaged configuration. A wrapper may or may not be used to enclosethe absorbent article 800 when in its packaged configuration. It is alsocontemplated that the absorbent article 800 illustrated in FIG. 104 canbe folded a second time along a longitudinal fold line that is generallycoaxial with the longitudinal axis of the article. The illustratedabsorbent article 800 can be moved to its use configuration by peelingthe adhesive 844 apart to open the absorbent article.

Although the present invention has been described with reference tovarious embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize thatchanges may be made in form and detail without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention. As such, it is intended that the foregoingdetailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limitingand that it is the appended claims, including all equivalents thereof,which are intended to define the scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A packaged feminine care absorbent articlecomprising: an absorbent article comprising an absorbent structure and ashell, the absorbent structure being configured for disposition adjacenta female wearer's vaginal region such that the absorbent structure isvertically outside the female wearer's labia majora such that theabsorbent structure does not enter the female wearer's labia majoraduring use to absorb bodily fluids discharged by the wearer, the shellbeing configured for supporting the absorbent structure at said vaginalregion, the shell having a body-facing surface and a garment-facingsurface, the body-facing surface having an adhesive thereon for adheringthe shell directly to the wearer, said absorbent article beingconfigurable between a packaged configuration and a use configuration,the absorbent structure having a three-dimensional shape other than arelatively flat shape in the use configuration; and a wrapper forenclosing the absorbent article in the packaged configuration, thewrapper comprising a releasable peel sheet for covering at least aportion of the adhesive on the body-facing surface of the shell in thepackaged configuration of the absorbent article, wherein the wrapper andthe releasable peel sheet are formed as a single-piece.
 2. The packagedfeminine care absorbent article as set forth in claim 1 wherein theadhesive covers only a portion of the body-facing surface of the shell.3. The packaged feminine care absorbent article as set forth in claim 1wherein at least a portion of the wrapper is enclosed along with theabsorbent article within another portion of the wrapper.
 4. The packagedfeminine care absorbent article as set forth in claim 1 wherein thewrapper includes a generally rectangular sheet.
 5. The packaged femininecare absorbent article as set forth in claim 1 wherein the absorbentarticle is folded longitudinally about a plurality of transverse foldlines in the packaged configuration.
 6. The packaged feminine careabsorbent article as set forth in claim 1 wherein the absorbent articleis rolled in the packaged configuration.
 7. The packaged feminine careabsorbent article as set forth in claim 1 wherein the wrapper fullyencloses the absorbent article.
 8. The packaged feminine care absorbentarticle as set forth in claim 7 wherein the wrapper includes a closure.9. A packaged feminine care absorbent article comprising: an absorbentarticle comprising an absorbent structure and a shell, the absorbentstructure being configured for disposition adjacent a female wearer'svaginal region such that the absorbent structure is vertically outsidethe female wearer's labia majora such that the absorbent structure doesnot enter the female wearer's labia majora during use to absorb bodilyfluids discharged by the wearer, the shell being configured forsupporting the absorbent structure at said vaginal region, the shellhaving a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface, thebody-facing surface having an adhesive thereon for adhering the shelldirectly to the wearer, said absorbent article being configurablebetween a packaged configuration and a use configuration, a portion ofthe shell overlying a portion of the absorbent structure in the packagedconfiguration, the absorbent structure having a three-dimensional shapeother than a relatively flat shape in the use configuration; and awrapper for enclosing the absorbent article in the packagedconfiguration, the wrapper comprising a releasable peel sheet forcovering at least a portion of the adhesive on the body-facing surfaceof the shell in the packaged configuration of the absorbent article,wherein the wrapper and the releasable peel sheet are formed as asingle-piece.
 10. The packaged feminine care absorbent article as setforth in claim 9 wherein the absorbent structure is folded transverselyabout at least one longitudinal fold line in the packaged configuration.11. The packaged feminine care absorbent article set forth in claim 9wherein the adhesive on the body-facing surface covers at least twoportions of the body-facing surface, the adhesive covering one portioncoming into contact with the adhesive covering another portion of thebody-facing surface when the absorbent article is in the packagedconfiguration.
 12. The packaged feminine care absorbent article as setforth in claim 9 wherein the absorbent structure is folded generally inhalf longitudinally in the packaged configuration.
 13. The packagedfeminine care absorbent article as set forth in claim 12 wherein theabsorbent structure is also folded generally in half transversely in thepackaged configuration.
 14. The packaged feminine care absorbent articleas set forth in claim 9 wherein the adhesive covers only a portion ofthe body-facing surface of the shell.
 15. The packaged feminine careabsorbent article as set forth in claim 9 wherein at least a portion ofthe wrapper is enclosed along with the absorbent article within anotherportion of the wrapper.